Stem Cell Treatment for Shoulder Repair

Shoulder injury is a common source of disability resulting from trauma to the area or osteoarthritis. In the past, non surgical options were limited to pain reduction and anti-inflammatory medications. Once these temporary solutions cease to provide relief, the next step suggested is often shoulder replacement.

Traditional methods of shoulder pain treatment:

  • Pain- killers
  • Heat or cold to the sore area
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Electrical stimulation of muscles and nerves
  • Ultrasound
  • Cortisone injection
  • Surgery

The most common indications for shoulder replacement are osteoarthritis, inflammatory arthritis, proximal humerus fractures, irreparable rotator cuff tears, rotator cuff arthropathy, and avascular necrosis of the humeral head.

Surgery can be daunting for any patient. Athletes, in particular, are concerned that even after surgery they may never perform at the same level they were at prior to injury.

A new age…

Arthritis of the shoulder joints, rotator cuff injuries and other sources of chronic shoulder pain have been shown to be responsive to stem cell therapy. Treatments use the anti-inflammatory and healing effects of SVF (Stromal Vascular Fraction), which is rich in mesenchymal stem cells and growth factors. The isolation of the stromal vascular fraction from adipose tissue takes under an hour to perform. The SVF separated from the adipose tissues contains a heterogeneous population of cells. Among this population of cells, is adipose-derived stems cells. These stem cells are similar in physiology to red blood cells, platelets, and growth factors, making them extremely useful in the treatment of degenerative conditions.
These stem cells are injected directly into the affected joint using local anesthesia and radiographic imaging to ensure accuracy. Improved functionality and pain relief are possible with stem cell technology. A proper diagnosis of shoulder pain is essential in determining the cause of the injury and patient candidacy for stem cell treatment.

Commonly Treated Shoulder Conditions:

  • Rotator cuff tears and/or tendonitis
  • Recurrent shoulder dislocations
  • Arthritis of the shoulder joint
  • AC Joint Separation
  • Labral tears
  • Thoracic outlet syndrome

Not all cases or patients respond to stem cell therapy and outcomes will vary from patient to patient.

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