Arthritis affects more than 54 million adults in the United States, according to the CDC, making it one of the leading causes of disability. Characterized by joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of motion, arthritis can make daily tasks challenging and even impact your quality of life. While traditional treatments—like medications, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery—can provide relief, they don’t address the root cause: the degeneration of cartilage and inflammation within the joint.
At Stem Cell Therapy NYC, Dr. Steven Struhl offers a groundbreaking alternative: stem cell therapy. This regenerative approach doesn’t just mask symptoms—it’s designed to help repair damaged tissues, reduce inflammation, and restore healthier joint function.
Understanding Arthritis and Joint Damage
Arthritis isn’t a single condition; it’s a term that covers over 100 joint diseases. The two most common forms are:
- Osteoarthritis (OA): Caused by wear and tear over time, leading to the breakdown of cartilage.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the joint lining.
Both conditions share a key problem: damaged or thinning cartilage. Cartilage doesn’t heal easily on its own because it lacks its own blood supply, meaning joint damage can progress without intervention.
What Is Stem Cell Therapy for Arthritis?
Stem cell therapy harnesses the body’s natural repair cells to encourage healing from within. Using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)—commonly derived from bone marrow or adipose (fat) tissue—this treatment can:
- Stimulate cartilage regeneration
- Reduce joint inflammation
- Support surrounding tissue repair
- Potentially slow the progression of arthritis
How Stem Cell Therapy Helps Arthritis Patients
When injected directly into the affected joint, stem cells can differentiate into cartilage cells (chondrocytes) and release anti-inflammatory cytokines that help calm chronic inflammation—a major driver of arthritis pain. This can help arthritis patients by:
1. Repairing Damaged Cartilage
Cartilage damage is central to arthritis pain. Stem cells can help rebuild the cartilage matrix, improving cushioning between bones and reducing friction during movement.
2. Reducing Inflammation
Persistent inflammation can lead to more cartilage breakdown. Stem cells release bioactive molecules that help modulate the immune response, reducing swelling and stiffness.
3. Promoting Long-Term Joint Health
Unlike temporary pain relief methods, stem cell therapy works to improve the joint’s internal environment, which can help preserve function for longer periods.
What the Research Says
While research is ongoing, early studies are promising:
- A 2016 study in Stem Cells International found that stem cell injections significantly improved pain and function in knee osteoarthritis patients over a 24-month follow-up.
- The American Journal of Sports Medicine reported that patients receiving stem cell therapy experienced reduced pain and improved joint function for up to two years.
What to Expect at Stem Cell Therapy NYC
Dr. Steven Struhl, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with over two decades of experience, specializes in minimally invasive orthopedic treatments, including regenerative medicine. Your stem cell therapy process typically includes:
- Evaluation & Imaging – Assessing your joint damage and arthritis severity.
- Stem Cell Harvesting – Usually from bone marrow or adipose tissue.
- Processing & Concentration – Preparing a highly concentrated stem cell solution.
- Guided Injection – Using imaging technology for precise placement in the affected joint.
Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days, with improvements continuing over weeks to months.
Is Stem Cell Therapy Right for You?
Stem cell therapy is especially suited for patients with mild-to-moderate arthritis who want to avoid or delay surgery, or those who haven’t found lasting relief from conventional treatments.
If arthritis pain is affecting your mobility and quality of life, stem cell therapy at Stem Cell Therapy NYC could offer the long-term relief you’ve been searching for. Dr. Steven Struhl provides expert, patient-centered care right here in Manhattan, helping patients regain comfort and movement without major surgery.
Call today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward healthier, pain-free joints.