Recovering from Stem Cell Therapy

Stem cells therapy is a regenerative medicine technique in which using stem cells taken from a patient is harvested and returned directly to that patient in an injured area. LALL Orthopedics ⁺ offers stem cell therapy for various sports injuries such as ligament / tendon tears and degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis. The goal is to treat pain, speed recovery of damaged tissues by stimulating healing and repair and to restore function.

• Bone marrow cells are harvested from the patients with a simple draw. The bone marrow is then processed to isolate and concentrate the stem cells. It is a safe procedure with relatively minor adverse effects such as harvest zone soreness. However, recovery from the harvesting of the stem cells is generally very well-tolerated.
• Once the stem cells are prepared, they are injected into the affected joint using guided imaging techniques (such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy) to ensure accurate placement. This is a simple, quick, minimally invasive, single-stage procedure. Sometimes the stem cells are used concomitantly during a surgical procedure to reinforce damaged tissues.After the procedure, patients may experience some temporary discomfort, swelling, or bruising at the injection site or surgical site. Pain medications and ice packs may be recommended to manage these symptoms. The surgical team at LALL Orthopedics ⁺ will provide specific instructions on post-procedure care, such as avoiding strenuous activities or weight-bearing on a joint.
• Some patients may experience initial improvements in symptoms, such as reduced pain or improved joint function, within a few weeks to a few months after stem cell therapy. These improvements may be related to the anti-inflammatory properties of stem cells or the activation of the body’s natural healing mechanisms.
• Over the course of several months, further improvements may be observed as the transplanted stem cells work to promote tissue repair and regeneration. Patients may notice increased mobility, reduced pain, and improved function in the affected area. This period can vary depending on the specific condition and the rate at which the body responds to the therapy.
• Long-term improvements from stem cell therapy can continue to develop over the course of several months to a year or more. This extended period allows the stem cells to integrate into the damaged tissues, support healing, and potentially improve the overall structure and function of the affected area. However, it’s important to note that the extent of long-term improvements can vary between individuals, and not all patients may experience significant or complete resolution of symptoms.

It’s important to have realistic expectations and understand that the recovery timeline can vary. Additionally, it’s important to follow any post-treatment guidelines provided by your LALL Orthopedics ⁺ surgeon which may include rehabilitation exercises, lifestyle modifications, and follow-up appointments. Regular monitoring and communication with the healthcare team are essential to evaluate progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.