Issue 26.15
Musculoskeletal injuries are a common problem for all of us, and as we age degenerative musculoskeletal conditions are a frequent barrier to maintaining the active lifestyle we desire. Typically, up to this point in time, physicians and other health care providers have managed the symptoms which are the result of these musculoskeletal injuries and degenerative conditions. Medical science is now developing technologies to facilitate the healing of damaged musculoskeletal tissues – ligaments, tendons, joints, spinal discs and muscles for example. Collectively, these new technologies, possible through advances in developmental and cell biology and other fields, are fueling the exciting and game-changing field of regenerative medicine.
First, the evolving therapy of platelet-rich plasma, commonly known as PRP, is available to patients with ligament, tendon, muscle or joint injuries. PRP is typically delivered to the damaged tissues via injection with some type of medical image guidance (such as ultrasound or xray). Evidence reviews of PRP treatment for musculoskeletal conditions have shown preliminary support for benefit of pain relief, but much work remains to be done. Full understanding of potential risk to a specific patient must take into consideration the patient’s specific medical condition and the specific proposed treatment, and should be discussed with the treating provider in detail prior to the treatment.
Another exciting area of the developing field of regenerative medicine is the use of stem cells to treat damaged tissues. Stem cells have the ability to transform themselves into many types of cells, such as skin cells, fibrocytes (cells that are part of ligaments), and chondrocytes (cells that are in joint cartilage). Stem cells can be collected from the adult patient themselves, or be identified and collected in other individuals for use in a specific patient, and are typically delivered to the desired location in the body via an injection with medical image guidance. Once again, a full understanding of the current supportive evidence, including potential benefit and risk of adverse events should be discussed with a medical provider prior to undergoing treatment.
There are current ongoing clinical trials to assess the value and benefit of regenerative medicine therapies. Patients may gain access to innovative, regenerative medicine therapies at little cost through informed participation in these clinical trials. In summary, regenerative medicine and stem cell treatments are showing exciting, early promise in the healing of musculoskeletal injuries and degenerative conditions. Additional information about the potential value of PRP or stem cell treatments may be obtained from providers with experience in the field of regenerative medicine.
Jon Obray can be contacted at Southwest Spine and Pain Center, 435-656-2424.