STEM CELL THERAPY AS A SHOULDER REPLACEMENT ALTERNATIVE

Consider shoulder replacement alternatives because the shoulder is perhaps the most mobile joint in the human body. We use our shoulders a lot in the course of a normal day. Whether we’re at the gym, playing sports, or just working around the yard or house, our shoulders are called upon for a range of motions as well as stabilization. This is why many of us just accept sore and painful shoulders as a part of life. A consequence of working or playing hard.

But, for many, a nagging shoulder can’t be ignored. A bum shoulder limits their activities and reduces their overall quality of life. Especially when it comes to a painful degenerative condition like shoulder osteoarthritis.

What Is Osteoarthritis of the Shoulder?

Osteoarthritis of the shoulder is a gradual softening or degeneration of the articular cartilage. It’s an age-related type of arthritis attributed to normal everyday wear and tear. Although it generally occurs in people over the age of 50, it can also occur in younger people as well.

Patients experience chronic joint, pain, swelling, and inflammation. Over time there may be a total loss of cartilage. This may cause bones to rub against one another while the shoulder is in motion; producing worsening pain and discomfort.

Is Shoulder Surgery the Best Way to Treat Osteoarthritis?

While shoulder joint replacement isn’t as common as hip or knee replacement, the Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality estimates that roughly 53,000 people in the U.S. undergo the procedure each year.

Despite solid success rates, surgery in and of itself is risky. So much so that it should be the absolute last option to address chronic shoulder pain. Infection, osteolysis, implant fractures, blood clots, and rare metal-allergy reactions are always possibilities with shoulder surgeries.

The recovery phase for shoulder surgery is also extensive. Pain and discomfort can last anywhere from 7 to 10 days following the procedure. Full recovery can take up to 6 weeks.

Throughout this time, your shoulder will need to remain still. Your arm may be in a sling for a few weeks to assist with this. There will be frequent applications of cold packs to alleviate swelling and pain, along with physical therapy sessions to help you regain function. Make no mistake about it, recovering from shoulder replacement is a long and challenging ordeal.

Adult Stem Cells Are a Less Invasive Alternative to Shoulder Replacement

Osteoarthritis is a progressive condition. Once it begins, there is no cure for this degenerative condition. Continued articular cartilage damage is common even after modifying activities, resting and icing your shoulder, using anti-inflammatory over-the-counter medications (NSAIDs) or prescription opioids, cortisone injections, and physical therapy.

Think of stem cell therapy as the next option before shoulder joint replacement surgery. Adult (autologous) stem cells are easily harvested directly from your bone marrow. Once harvested, it is concentrated into a combination of stem cells, platelets, and white blood cells. It’s then injected into the damaged shoulder joint to regenerate articular cartilage, reduce pain and inflammation processes, and accelerate healing.

In addition to providing relief to osteoarthritis sufferers, stem cell therapy is an effective technique for rotator cuff repair – which is usually addressed (much less effectively) with arthroscopic shoulder surgery.

Is Stem Cell Therapy Right for You?

Both shoulder joint replacement and arthroscopic shoulder surgery involve months of rehab and potential risks and complications.

As shoulder replacement alternatives, stem cell therapies offered by Advanced Regenerative Medicine in Pittsburgh may alleviate shoulder pain and discomfort, plus the conditions causing it, with one simple injection done right at our office. You’ll be able to resume normal activities immediately following the procedure.

To learn more about this shoulder replacement alternative, contact us today at 855-984-8287.