Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of joint disease and involves degeneration of cartilage and over time joint destruction. Not surprisingly, it is a major cause of disability in the elderly.

Conventional medical treatment of OA includes drug and nondrug approaches. Most of the drugs prescribed are anti-inflammatory in nature. Nondrug therapies include weight loss if indicated, use of heat and ice, exercise, physical and occupational therapy, as well as use of canes and walkers.

Can adult (nonembryonic) stem cells help OA? In-a-word, yes. There is a type of stem cell called mesenchymals in bone marrow, umbilical cord blood and other tissues that can be transformed (differentiated) into cartilage-making cells. When these were used in animal models of OA the improvements were impressive. Human experiments have also been very encouraging.

With this said, the use of pure bone marrow derived stem cells for OA remains experimental and confined to clinical studies in the US. However, doctors can do whole bone marrow transplants in which stem cell rich bone marrow tissue is harvested and given back by IV drip. Dr. David Steenblock has done over 1000 such whole bone marrow transplants to-date for a wide variety of health challenges including OA with often noteworthy results. In addition, he has figured out how to employ various FDA approved stem cell activating and mobilizing drugs in such a way as to greatly increase the number and vitality of older patient's bone marrow stem cells. This is discussed in this issue of his clinic's newsletter.

If you are interested in learning more about this treatment approach call 1-800-300-1063 or contacting us online.