Stem cell injections harness the body’s natural regenerative potential to help you recover from orthopedic conditions, such as knee, hip, and shoulder pain. Dr. Jonathan Gelber offers stem cell injections in his commitment to offering holistic, regenerative solutions to promote tissue repair and help you heal naturally from within.
What Are Stem Cell Injections?
Stem cell injections involve the precise delivery of specialized cells, known as stem cells, into damaged or degenerated tissues within the musculoskeletal system. These versatile cells have the unique ability to transform into various cell types, facilitating tissue repair and regeneration. Stem cell injections are used to address conditions like osteoarthritis, tendon injuries, and cartilage damage. By promoting natural healing, stem cell injections offer a minimally invasive alternative to traditional orthopedic treatments.
Conditions That May Necessitate Stem Cell Injections:
- Osteoarthritis
- Tendonitis
- Ligament injuries
- Cartilage damage
- Degenerative disc disease
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Tennis or golfer’s elbow
- Chronic back pain
- Hip labral tears
- Plantar fasciitis
- Other orthopedic conditions
Signs Indicating You May Need Stem Cell Injections:
- Persistent joint pain
- Limited range of motion
- Stiffness and swelling
- Difficulty performing daily activities
- Chronic musculoskeletal discomfort
- X-ray or MRI scans showing tissue damage
How Stem Cell Injections Work
Stem cells are undifferentiated cells with the remarkable ability to develop into specialized cell types within the body. Two primary types of stem cells are used for orthopedic treatments: embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells. Embryonic stem cells derived from early-stage pre-implantation embryos are pluripotent, meaning they can transform into almost any cell type, and adult stem cells are multipotent, with a more limited differentiation potential.
Adult stem cells are typically harvested from your bone marrow or adipose tissue. Once isolated, they are carefully injected into the affected area, such as a damaged joint or injured tissue. The injected stem cells navigate to the site of injury and undergo differentiation into the cells required for tissue repair. They also release growth factors and cytokines, stimulating the body’s natural healing processes, reducing inflammation, and improving overall joint function.
Benefits of Stem Cell Injections:
- Minimally invasive procedure
- Utilizes the body’s natural healing processes
- Reduces inflammation
- Promotes tissue regeneration
- Helps you avoid or delay surgery
- Personalized treatment using a patient’s own cells
- Shorter recovery time compared to surgery
- Fewer risks of complications
- Improved joint function and mobility
What Happens During The Treatment
Your stem cell injection process starts with a consultation with Dr. Gelber to discuss your condition and medical history. Once the treatment plan is determined, stem cells are harvested from your own body, often from the bone marrow or adipose tissue. These stem cells are injected into the targeted area, whether it’s a joint, tendon, or damaged tissue. The process is minimally invasive and concludes within an hour, and you can return home the same day.
The Recovery Process After Stem Cell Injections
You might experience minor side effects like pain, swelling, or bruising at the injection site, but these typically resolve within a few days. Please follow your orthopedic surgeon’s post-treatment instructions, which may include limited physical activity for a short period. Over the following weeks and months, you’ll notice gradual improvements in pain relief and joint function as the injected stem cells continue to work on tissue repair and regeneration. Please attend regular follow-ups with Dr. Gelber to monitor your progress.
Stem Cell Injections Aftercare Guidelines:
- Rest and avoid strenuous activities initially
- Use ice to reduce swelling if necessary
- Take all prescribed pain medications
- Attend follow-up appointments as scheduled
- Communicate any concerns or changes in your condition with Dr. Gelber
- Gradually resume normal activities as advised
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle to support the healing process
Only One Component of Your Holistic Plan
Stem cell injections are just one component of your holistic treatment plan. While they offer significant benefits in orthopedic care, they are often complemented by other therapies like physical rehabilitation, lifestyle adjustments, corticosteroids, viscosupplementation, and other treatments. Dr. Gelber will create a comprehensive plan to address your orthopedic condition, ensuring the best possible outcomes and long-term success in managing your health.
Consult Dr. Gelber Today
Dr. Jonathan Gelber is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in integrative and whole-body wellness. With a focus on returning you to an active lifestyle, he offers a comprehensive approach to orthopedic care. If you’re seeking personalized treatment that combines conventional orthopedics with holistic well-being, consult Dr. Gelber today for a tailored plan that prioritizes your musculoskeletal health and overall wellness.