There are two classifications of osteoarthritis: primary and secondary. Although the symptoms and treatments for both types are similar, their underlying causes differ.

Primary Osteoarthritis:

More prevalent than secondary arthritis, primary osteoarthritis arises without a known cause. It is commonly linked to the aging process and typically manifests between the ages of 55 and 60. Primary osteoarthritis is more widespread than its secondary counterpart, affecting areas such as the fingers, thumb, spine, hips, knees, or big toes.

Secondary Osteoarthritis:

Characterized by a specific cause, secondary osteoarthritis results from factors such as injury or illness. Injuries like bone fractures may eventually lead to the development of secondary osteoarthritis in the affected joint. Additionally, inflammatory arthritis types, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, gout, or infectious arthritis, can contribute to its occurrence. Genetic joint disorders like Ehlers-Danlos syndrome are also associated with secondary osteoarthritis.

Risk factors for secondary osteoarthritis encompass obesity, inactivity, and genetic predisposition. Excessive weight places stress on joints, accelerating cartilage wear. Inactivity weakens the muscles and tendons crucial for joint stability. Secondary osteoarthritis is often diagnosed at an earlier age, around 45 to 50.

While the onset of primary osteoarthritis and certain causes of secondary osteoarthritis cannot be entirely prevented, maintaining an active lifestyle and a healthy weight can mitigate the risk of developing secondary osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis (OA) results from the gradual deterioration of joints, with cumulative damage accumulating over time. Age is a primary contributor to this joint damage, as the prolonged exposure to repetitive stress increases with advancing years.

Additionally, various factors can contribute to joint damage, including:

• Past injuries, such as torn cartilage, dislocated joints, or ligament injuries.
• Joint malformation.
• Obesity.
• Poor posture.

Several risk factors heighten the likelihood of developing OA, such as:

• Family history, especially if parents or siblings have the condition.
• Gender, with women exhibiting higher rates of OA than men.
• Age, particularly for individuals aged 50 and above, as noted by the Arthritis Foundation.
• Menopause.
• Occupations involving activities like kneeling, climbing, or heavy lifting.
• History of injuries.
• Being overweight or obese.
• Poor posture.
• Presence of other medical conditions affecting joint health, such as diabetes or different forms of arthritis.

Notably, having OA in one part of the body increases the risk of developing OA in other areas.

To identify osteoarthritis, your healthcare provider will assess the affected joint for tenderness, redness, swelling, and flexibility. Below, we outline some tests your doctor may perform.

Lab Tests

Examining your joint fluid and blood can aid in confirming the diagnosis.

• Blood Tests: While there isn’t a specific blood test for osteoarthritis, certain tests can help rule out other causes of joint pain, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
• Joint Fluid Analysis: Your healthcare provider might use a needle to extract fluid from the affected joint. This fluid is then analyzed for signs of inflammation, helping determine if your pain is due to gout or infection rather than osteoarthritis.

Imaging Tests

To visualize the affected joint, your doctor may suggest:

• X-rays: While X-rays don’t show cartilage directly, they reveal cartilage loss by indicating a narrowing of the space between bones in the joint. X-rays can also help identify bone spurs near the joints.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): This procedure provides detailed images of bones, soft tissues, and cartilage using radio waves and a strong magnetic field. MRI is particularly beneficial in severe cases of osteoarthritis.

The symptoms of osteoarthritis typically develop gradually and worsen with time. Common signs of osteoarthritis encompass:

• Pain: Joints affected by osteoarthritis may experience pain during or after movement.
• Stiffness: Joint stiffness is often most pronounced upon waking up or after periods of inactivity
• Tenderness: Applying light pressure to or near the joint may elicit tenderness.
• Loss of Flexibility: Movement of the joint through its full range may become restricted.
• Grating Sensation: Using the joint might produce a grating sensation, accompanied by audible popping or crackling sounds.
• Bone Spurs: Hard, lump-like formations of extra bone, known as bone spurs, can develop around the affected joint.
• Swelling: Inflammation of the soft tissues around the joint can lead to swelling

Global Regenex offers a comprehensive three-day treatment program known for its safety and non-invasiveness. Patients undergoing these treatments can resume travel the following day. The day-wise schedule is as follows:

Day 1:

• Pick up from the Airport to the Hospital
• Dr-Patient Interaction for addressing queries
• Admission procedure
• Clinical examination and Lab tests as prescribed by the doctor
• Supportive Therapy

Day 2:

• Stem Cell Procedure
• Supportive Therapies
• Physiotherapy

Day 3:

• Supportive Therapy
• Physiotherapy
• Discharging formalities
• Drop back at the Airport

Important Note:

• For admission, please carry a valid identity card (Passport/ Pan Card / Driving license).
• Ensure you have hard copies of patient reports during admission.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative condition affecting millions globally, resulting in pain, stiffness, and diminished joint function. Traditional OA treatments mainly target symptom management rather than addressing the root cause of cartilage degeneration. In recent times, there has been a growing interest in employing stem cell therapy as a regenerative solution for OA.

Stem cells, undifferentiated and capable of developing into various cell types, offer a promising avenue for conditions like OA, where regenerating damaged tissues, especially cartilage, is crucial. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), a type of adult stem cell, show potential in OA treatment.

The fundamental concept of stem cell therapy for OA involves harvesting stem cells, typically from the patient’s body, and injecting them into the affected joint. The objective is to stimulate cartilage regeneration, reduce inflammation, and ultimately enhance joint function while alleviating pain.

As regenerative medicine advances, stem cell therapy for OA presents significant potential. However, it is crucial to approach these treatments with cautious optimism, recognizing the necessity for further research and technique refinement. While stem cell therapy could revolutionize OA treatment, maintaining a balance between enthusiasm and scientific rigor is essential to ensure the safety and effectiveness of these innovative approaches in improving the lives of those affected by OA.

What is the primary issue in osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint ailment, involves the gradual breakdown of joint tissues. This prevalent form of arthritis is more common among older individuals, typically leading to joint pain and brief stiffness following periods of rest or inactivity.

How many categories of osteoarthritis exist?

Osteoarthritis manifests in two forms: primary and secondary. While the symptoms and treatments are similar, the underlying causes differ between the two types.

Who is more susceptible to osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis tends to affect women more frequently than men, with women experiencing more pronounced knee arthritis. Genetic factors, anatomy, and prior knee injuries contribute to the risk of developing osteoarthritis. While the presentation of symptoms remains consistent between genders, the severity of symptoms can vary.

What are five worst foods for osteoarthritis?

Dietary choices to steer clear of with osteoarthritis include:

• Added sugars, as limiting sugar intake is beneficial for everyone, especially those with arthritis.
• Processed and red meats.
• Gluten-containing foods.
• Highly processed foods.
• Certain vegetable oils.
• Foods high in salt.
• Foods rich in AGEs.

Which activities elevate the risk of osteoarthritis?

Activities that can heighten the risk include:

• Squatting.
• Abrupt, jerky movements.
• Extended periods of kneeling and standing.
• Twisting and bending of the legs, common in sports like baseball and football.

Stem cell therapy for osteoarthritis (OA) involves a sophisticated mechanism that aims to address the underlying causes of joint degeneration and promote tissue regeneration. The process begins with the extraction of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from a patient’s own bone marrow or adipose tissue. These MSCs possess unique properties, including the ability to differentiate into various cell types.

Once harvested, the stem cells are carefully processed and concentrated to create a therapeutic mixture. This potent mixture is then strategically injected into the affected joint, typically guided by imaging techniques to ensure precision. The introduction of stem cells into the arthritic joint serves multiple purposes.

Firstly, the stem cells contribute to tissue repair by differentiating into chondrocytes, the specialized cells responsible for cartilage formation. This regeneration helps to rebuild and restore the damaged joint structures. Secondly, stem cells exert anti-inflammatory effects, modulating the immune response and reducing the chronic inflammation associated with OA.

Furthermore, stem cells release trophic factors, signaling molecules that support angiogenesis, promoting the formation of new blood vessels in the joint. This enhanced blood flow contributes to the overall healing process by delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to the damaged tissues. The multifaceted nature of stem cell therapy offers a promising approach to alleviate symptoms, slow the progression of osteoarthritis, and enhance the overall quality of life for individuals grappling with this degenerative joint condition.

Stem cell therapy offers a transformative approach to addressing the challenges of osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint condition. Potential improvements after stem cell therapy include:

• Cartilage Regeneration: Stem cells have the ability to differentiate into chondrocytes, the cells responsible for cartilage formation. This can contribute to the regeneration of damaged cartilage in the affected joints.
• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Stem cells release anti-inflammatory factors, mitigating the chronic inflammation associated with osteoarthritis. This may alleviate pain and reduce the progression of joint degeneration.
• Tissue Repair: Stem cells promote the repair of damaged joint tissues by releasing growth factors and signaling molecules that create a conducive environment for healing.
• Improved Joint Functionality: The regenerative effects of stem cell therapy can enhance joint functionality, leading to increased mobility and reduced stiffness.
• Pain Relief: Stem cells may help in reducing pain associated with osteoarthritis by addressing the underlying causes and promoting joint health.

While ongoing research continues to refine the understanding of stem cell therapy for osteoarthritis, early clinical studies and anecdotal evidence suggest a promising avenue for improving the quality of life for individuals grappling with the challenges of this degenerative joint condition.