Cartilage is the flexible tissue mainly present at joints, and other parts of the body such as the nose, ear, and lungs. Cartilage cushions the bones and makes quick movement at the joints without pain possible. So, when it isn’t present or is impaired, then movement in the joint area will hurt and be restricted. Symptoms of impaired cartilage function include pain, joint locking, swelling, and stiffness.

Repetitive actions such as deep knee bend, running and jumping, and traumatic injuries are the major causes of cartilage damage. However, cartilage defects aren’t dependent on these factors alone.

Sometimes, cartilage defects develop without any known cause and can be due to genetic factors. Call (844) GET-STEM to know more and treat cartilage defects.

Effects of cartilage defects

One of the most common cartilage defects is cartilage tear. A cartilage tear is simply having the cartilage in the joint torn into many pieces instead of working together as a single unit. When this happens, movements across the joint will elicit pain because there’s nothing to cushion the bones.

Tissue degeneration, which occurs progressively as a result of altered mechanical movement in the affected area, is one complication associated with defective cartilage. As someone with an active lifestyle, a cartilage defect can become a problem that hinders your productivity.

Treatment of cartilage defects

Conventional treatment for defective cartilage usually includes surgery, physical therapy, medications, injections, and various other options. However, it’s possible that the cartilage defect can be so severe that these treatment options may not be sufficient.

Another advanced treatment option includes microfracture. This procedure involves penetrating the firm outer layer of bone with an awl to expose the inner layers of bone where the marrow cells are. This allows for the migration of growth factors and mesenchymal stem cells from bone marrow to the affected area. The mesenchymal stem cells differentiate and eventually form new cartilage.

What are stem cells?

Stem cells are cells that can morph into different types of cells in the body. ability to differentiate to cells of different lineages such as blood cells, muscles, neurons, bones, etc. As a result of this multipotency, researchers can manipulate stem cells into different types of cells to heal and restore damaged tissues in the body.

Stem cell therapy for cartilage defects

Stem cells are an ideal treatment option for cartilage defects. They’re easily accessible and have great healing potential for different cartilage defects. With a cartilage transfer, the cartilage in an existing healthy area is moved to that damaged area. These features make stem cell therapy an effective mode of treatment for impaired joint function.

Conclusively, it’s important to point out that the best treatment option available will be determined by the severity of the condition. R3 Stem Cell provides stem cell therapy in Phoenix, Arizona for orthopedic conditions like cartilage defects. Contact us today for your first consultation!