Stem cell therapy can be used to treat a number of orthopedic conditions, including issues with the spine, neck, shoulder, knee, elbow, feet, or wrist. This innovative therapy can help these joints heal without surgical measures. It is important to understand what to expect after your stem cell therapy appointment in the office.
Immediately After the Appointment
During stem cell therapy, both blood and bone marrow will be extracted from your body for use in the therapy. The bone marrow is separated to extract the stem cells. The blood is extracted and placed in a centrifuge so that platelets can be concentrated and suspended in the plasma. Both of these are injected into the injured joint.
You may experience some discomfort during and immediately after the procedure. There is some discomfort associated with extraction of the bone marrow. There can also be some discomfort in the site of the injury where the stem cells and platelets were injected. You could also experience a bit of swelling, redness, or tenderness in the area for a few days after the treatment.
For the Weeks Following
Stem cell therapy takes several weeks to heal an injured joint. Within five to seven days, you may begin to notice a lessening of pain and an increase in mobility. It is important that you do not overwork the joint unnecessarily so that healing can continue to progress, even if you are feeling better. The right environment is very important for your healing, so you will likely be prescribed some nutritional supplements as well including Vitamin D3 and green tea extract.
It can take up to three months of healing time before stem cell therapy will render full results. However, you will gradually gain more and more mobility in the joint, as well as less and less pain.
If you are interested in stem cell therapy for your joint injury, contact us today for more information, a consultation, or an exam.