Pain caused by osteoarthritis is one of the most common complaints we come across at Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center. Chances are that you or someone you know has experience with this degenerative condition. For some patients, the pain can be constant and brutal. We employ many different techniques to diagnose and treat this condition, but among the most promising for certain clients is stem cell therapy. By using the healing power of the patient’s own stem cells, relief from osteoarthritis can often be found—especially for patients who are not seeing results from traditional treatments.
What Is Osteoarthritis?
We often hear about people suffering from “arthritis.” This term is actually a catch-all for a number of different conditions that cause pain and swelling in the joints, including osteoarthritis. In this type of arthritis, the joints suffer from degeneration of cartilage. The most common joints affected are the hip, knee, shoulder, ankle, and thumb.
These joints contain cartilage that is smooth and slippery, allowing easy movement. With osteoarthritis, that cartilage begins to wear away, causing pain and difficulty moving the joint. In severe cases, the cartilage can wear away entirely, leading to bone-on-bone contact.
Treatment options vary based on the severity of the condition and the level of pain. Traditional approaches may include over-the-counter pain medications, exercise and stretching routines, or physical therapy. In extreme cases, joint replacement may be necessary—but many patients want to avoid invasive surgery.
For those wanting to avoid surgery and improve their prognosis, stem cell therapy can be an important addition to a treatment plan.
What Is Stem Cell Therapy?
Stem cell therapy is changing the way orthopaedists treat certain conditions, including osteoarthritis. This treatment uses the body’s own healing resources to improve arthritis symptoms.
Stem cells are unique because they can differentiate into many types of cells responsible for repairing or growing bone, cartilage, muscle, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissue. When injected into joints damaged by osteoarthritis, they can transform into cartilage cells and release growth factors that promote healing. Instead of simply treating symptoms, stem cell therapy may reverse some of the damage caused by degeneration—helping patients avoid surgery.
The stem cells are harvested from a patient’s bone marrow—usually from the pelvis—using a sterile, minimally invasive procedure. They are then separated, prepared, and injected into the affected joint. The process takes less than an hour under local anesthesia, with mild, aching discomfort being the most common side effect.
Does It Work?
Because stem cell therapy is still relatively new, large-scale research is ongoing. However, here at our practice, we’ve seen many patients—who did not respond to traditional treatments—experience pain relief with this therapy.
Some notice improvement after just one treatment, while others require additional sessions.
Am I a Candidate?
The best candidates for stem cell therapy are those who have exhausted other treatment options but are not ready for surgery. Patients without complete joint collapse or bone-on-bone contact often see the best results.
Conditions that may prevent eligibility include:
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A history of cancer not in remission for at least five years
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Active infection
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Certain blood-borne diseases
If you are interested, the first step is an initial appointment with Dr. Nielsen, who will review your case, discuss options, and create a personalized treatment plan.
Dr. David Nielsen, D.O. is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with over 20 years of experience in hand, upper extremity, and shoulder surgery. He trained at Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine and the University of South Florida. He brings over two decades of surgical experience and a deep commitment to patient-centered care as the founder of Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center.
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Learn MoreWhat Our Patients Say
“I went to Dr. Nielsen for a second opinion on a dislocated hand. My first surgeon recommended surgery without much consideration. A friend suggested Dr. Nielsen, who spent time reviewing my case and concluded that I only needed rehabilitation. He was right! He's an excellent doctor.”
I was impressed with the quality of service and the caring people throughout the visit, from the receptionist to the doctor seen. They truly care and are honest and professional.
The best ortho in the state. Got my son in right away and is a very caring crew. Professional and clean atmosphere. Would recommend to anyone.
We can’t recommend Dr. Nielsen and his team enough. They represent the best in medical care and kindness to others. They are truly excellent in providing healthcare services. With him, you will find a health partner, a supportive friend on your health journey, and continuous support in your pursuit of well-being.
Highly recommend Charlottesville Orthopedic Center for PT. They are the best! Very knowledgeable, detailed, patient, caring and they listen. I had shoulder and knee issues. Matt was my physical therapist and I would definitely go back if I ever need more therapy. Thank you so much for all your help.
Very responsive, same day service. Staff is knowledgeable, friendly, and thorough when communicating complex medical information.
Great place. The best group of people you could ask for. Knowledgeable and polite. #1
I was able to get a same day appointment after every other place I called turned me away. In the end, I was glad I got turned away elsewhere because I can’t imagine any other practice being more caring and understanding.
