There are simple, non-invasive and minimally-invasive procedures even in the field of orthopaedics. Dr. J. Keith Spain, regenerative medicine and sports medicine specialist, recently spoke to the Mobile Rotary Club about the options available to those suffering from osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis is the wear and tear or trauma causing thinning and ultimately loss of cartilage in a joint. This condition results in pain, swelling, and loss of function and affects roughly 27 million Americans. Nearly 80% of us will have X-ray evidence of osteoarthritis by age 60, but only 60% will feel pain from it.
While knee replacement is one option for those experiencing severe osteoarthritis, there are non-surgical options that could be right for you. These include:
- Exercise – walking, cycling, or golf can maintain flexibility and reduce stiffness in the knee.
- Strength Training – optimizing the muscles in the leg and core assist in support the affected joint.
- Bracing – in some cases, a simple compression sleeve can provide relief. An unloader brace can provide a proven benefit when osteoarthritis is confined to one side of the joint.
- Steroid Injections – these can provide short-term relief for pain. Dr. Spain recommends using this approach sparingly and only three to four times per year.
- Autologous Stem Cell Injections – these stem cells come from your own body and regenerate tissue. There is minimal risk of infection and no risk of rejection.
Why stem cells?
Stem cells have the ability to self-renew. They work because they are known to decrease inflammation, increase HGH and testosterone within the joint (which improves healing), and decrease nerve pain. Case studies support that stem cells can provide pain relief in two weeks, continuing on for many months. Although more than one treatment may be needed, the overall success rate is over 90% – and it doesn’t involve surgery.
Dr. Spain works with patients to review their complete history, exploring any and all treatment options. If you are experiencing pain from osteoarthritis, a non-surgical approach could be an option for you.
Dr. Spain, a non-surgical and regenerative sports medicine specialist, is board certified in Family Medicine and fellowship-trained in sports medicine. Dr. Spain specializes in the non-surgical treatment of orthopaedic injuries and conditions and medical conditions in athletes of all ages and abilities. He has a particular interest in diagnostic and interventional musculoskeletal ultrasound, minimally invasive procedures, and regenerative medicine.
For more than 40 years, patients throughout the Gulf Coast have chosen our orthopaedic doctors at The Orthopaedic Group, P.C., for specialized care in the spine, shoulder, elbow, hand and wrist, hip, and knee, and foot and ankle.
Our fellowship-trained doctors have extensive education and experience in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating all orthopaedic injuries and conditions.
Experienced, Expert care for over 40 years.
