The Stem Cell Injection Experience
Many patients considering stem cell injections like to know what to expect from their regenerative orthopedic medicine experience. First, we perform stem cell injections on a “same day” outpatient basis. The entire procedure is performed using local anesthesia so there will be no pain or discomfort and you will be able to talk comfortably. Your body actually has several “storage sites” of stem cells that are available for us to use to repair degenerated and injured structures and tissues. We find that it is easiest and most effective to take stem cells from your hip bone. The “harvesting” procedure is performed using local anesthetic injections, only takes a few minutes and is painless as well. Once we obtain your stem cells we process them in a centrifuge to separate the “healing cells” from the “non healing cells”. Within a few minutes we can transfer them into a syringe and use them to inject into the degenerated, damaged or injured areas. The entire injection procedure will take about 3-4 hours. Most people can go about their daily lives immediately after the procedure. Some people begin to feel results immediately, although it’s more likely that it will take a few days or even weeks to begin to see significant effects or to feel that your symptoms have decreased. Keep in mind that stem cell treatment is a “repair” process which usually takes 2-3 months to be fully effective and produce the desired results. Typically, we will repeat the procedure about 4-6 weeks after the initial stem cell injection to allow the stem cells to continue growing and multiplying into the injured, damaged or degenerated tissue. Depending on the extent of tissue damage that has been repaired, as well your general health, the healing benefits can last for months or years. It is important to understand that the stem cells don’t stop working, but your activities, work, athletic or sports activities can augment, sustain or detract from the long term treatment effect.
Drive the Body’s Power, Return to ‘Body Strong’
To learn more about Regenerative Orthopedic Medicine treatments including stem cell injections for arthritis, sports and work injury, schedule a consultation with Daniel Southern, M.D. by calling 203-702-6629 or visiting www.regenerativeorthopedicmedicinect.com, Google+, www.facebook.com/DanielSouthernMD.
