If you suffer from arthritis, stem cell injections can be used as a form of treatment in addition to the common orthopedic care. It’s done to help with pain relief and enhance the patient’s overall quality of life. But how long is the stem cell therapy recovery process, and what does it involve?
What Is Stem Cell Therapy?
In order to use stem cell treatment, a patient’s own stem cells must be removed from the bone marrow. When it comes to using stem cell therapy to treat arthritis, the therapy team will inject healthy cells into the joint. These cells have special abilities like immunomodulation, which allows them to alter an environment from one of destruction to one of repair and regrowth. Additionally, stem cells have the capacity to differentiate into a variety of other cell types seen in the body.
When Can You Resume a Physical Activity?
Probably the most important part of this type of therapy is post-procedure care. All the restrictions you should stick to will be explained to you by your doctor before you undergo this treatment. In order to have the best and long-lasting benefits, you will be strongly recommended to do the following:
- Begin with your physical therapy within the first 4-6 days,
- Remain still for the first 24-48 hours when you are resting,
- Stop using any anti-inflammatory drugs for at least (or preferably) six weeks.
How Long Is Stem Cell Therapy Recovery Process and What Does It Involve?
It takes around two to three hours for the complete stem cell operation to be finished. Patients receiving this type of treatment can easily leave on their own, and after just a few days, they can usually resume their normal activities and employment.
Before Going Home
The first step of the treatment is to gather growth factors and adult stem cells from different parts of your body. Your lower abdomen is where the specialist would typically collect adipose (fat)-derived stem cells, giving access to a sizable number of cells. In addition to the adipose-derived cells, they will also remove bone marrow-derived cells from the iliac crest, which includes a number of vital cells.
After Going Home
The patient may suffer stiffness and soreness in the afflicted joint, as well as some slight pain from the site of the stem cell extraction. It can be present for one to two weeks following the treatment and during the recovery process.
How to Prevent Infections
Although this type of therapy usually carries a small risk of infection, you should put some effort into staying careful. Keep in mind that despite the fact that most stem cell treatment for arthritis is regarded as safe, there are still certain dangers. Because adult stem cells are obtained from the patient, there is less chance of an allergic response during the majority of stem cell therapies. Temporary swelling and discomfort are the most frequent side effects, so make sure you rest for a few days.
Ask Your Surgeon What You Should Do to Make a Recovery Process a Success
If you suffer from arthritis, then stem cell treatment might be just the thing you need to ease up the pain and the other symptoms that represent this condition. The good news is that you can reach out to Luxe Foot Surgery for potential treatments. Contact us to discuss everything you want to know and inquire about what approach we would like to take to get started on your recovery treatment.
FAQ
How Long Are You Out of Work After a Stem Cell Transplant?
Since this treatment is low-risk, you can get back to work after several days of resting. However, keep in mind that there are some activities you should avoid for a while.
What Is the Recovery Like After a Stem Cell Procedure?
Within two to twelve weeks, patients may start to feel less pain. Typically patients continue to improve over the course of six to twelve months.
How Long Do You Have to Stay in Hospital After Stem Cell?
The entire stem cell procedure is completed in around two to three hours. Patients getting this kind of care can typically return to their regular activities and jobs within a few days, but most importantly – they can simply depart on their own from the hospital.
What Can You Not Do After Stem Cell Treatment?
Until you have properly healed, swimming should be avoided. NSAIDs, large loads, resistance, and traction should also be avoided during the first 4 weeks of recuperation.
