Non-Surgical Treatment for Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a common degenerative joint disease characterized by the gradual loss of articular cartilage, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. It primarily affects older adults, with a higher prevalence in women. OA can be classified into two types: primary OA, which occurs without any identifiable cause, and secondary OA, which results from specific factors such as previous injuries, obesity, or congenital conditions.

Key Points about Knee Osteoarthritis:

Prevalence: Knee OA is the most frequently affected joint, with significant rates among individuals over 60 years old. Approximately 13% of women and 10% of men in this age group have symptomatic knee OA, with prevalence rising to 40% in those over 70.
Symptoms: Common symptoms include joint pain that worsens with activity, stiffness, swelling, and a limited range of motion. These symptoms can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life.
Treatment Options: Non-surgical treatment options include lifestyle modifications (such as weight loss and exercise), physical therapy, pain management with medications (like NSAIDs), and various injection therapies (such as corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid). Surgical options, like knee arthroplasty, are considered for advanced cases that do not respond to conservative treatments.

Knee OA is a progressive condition that can lead to significant disability if not managed effectively, making early diagnosis and intervention crucial for maintaining joint function and quality of life.

Summary of Intra-Articular Injection of PRP, Collagen Type 1, and Stem Cells for Knee Osteoarthritis Treatment

Intra-articular injections of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), collagen type 1, and stem cells are emerging treatments for knee osteoarthritis (OA) aimed at reducing pain and improving joint function. Here’s a summary of their efficacy based on recent research findings:

1. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)

Mechanism: PRP is derived from the patient’s own blood and contains a high concentration of growth factors that can promote healing and reduce inflammation in the knee joint.
Efficacy: Studies show mixed results. Some research indicates that PRP can lead to significant improvements in pain and function, particularly in patients with mild to moderate OA. For instance, a study involving 288 participants found no significant difference in pain relief or cartilage volume loss when comparing PRP with saline placebo over 12 months.
Limitations: Despite some positive outcomes, many studies highlight a lack of strong evidence supporting PRP’s effectiveness, leading to recommendations against its use in clinical guidelines due to low-certainty evidence.

2. Collagen Type 1

Mechanism: Collagen type 1 injections aim to restore cartilage structure and function by providing the necessary building blocks for cartilage repair.
Efficacy: While specific studies on collagen type 1 for knee OA are less prevalent, collagen supplementation in general has been shown to improve joint health and may help in reducing symptoms of OA. However, more rigorous clinical trials are needed to establish definitive benefits.

3. Stem Cells

Mechanism: Stem cell therapy involves injecting mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into the knee joint, which can differentiate into cartilage cells and promote tissue regeneration.
Efficacy: Research indicates that stem cell injections can lead to improvements in pain and function over time. A study found that a single injection of total stromal cells combined with PRP significantly reduced knee pain and improved physical function after 12 and 24 weeks. However, changes in cartilage thickness may take longer to manifest.
Limitations: The effectiveness of stem cell therapy can vary based on the type of stem cells used, the method of administration, and individual patient factors.

The combination of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapy

The combination of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapy is considered a promising treatment for knee osteoarthritis (OA) due to their complementary mechanisms and potential benefits in promoting joint healing and regeneration. Here are the key reasons why this combination is gaining attention:

1. Enhanced Tissue Regeneration

PRP: PRP is rich in growth factors and cytokines that promote healing, reduce inflammation, and stimulate the proliferation of chondrocytes (cartilage cells). It helps maintain cartilage health and can provide symptomatic relief from pain.
Stem Cells: Stem cells, particularly mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), have the unique ability to differentiate into various cell types, including cartilage cells. When injected into the joint, they can contribute to the regeneration of damaged tissues and improve joint function.

2. Synergistic Effects

The combination of PRP and stem cells can enhance the regenerative process. PRP provides a favorable environment for stem cells by supplying growth factors that promote their survival and differentiation. This synergy can lead to better outcomes compared to using either treatment alone.

3. Pain Relief and Improved Function

Studies have shown that patients receiving a combination of PRP and stem cell injections experience significant reductions in knee pain and improvements in physical function. For instance, a study indicated that this combination therapy led to notable improvements in pain scores and functional outcomes over time.

4. Minimally Invasive Approach

Both PRP and stem cell therapies are minimally invasive compared to traditional surgical options. They utilize the patient’s own biological materials, which reduces the risk of rejection and complications associated with foreign substances.

5. Potential to Delay or Avoid Surgery

By effectively managing symptoms and promoting joint health, the combination of PRP and stem cells may help delay the need for more invasive procedures like knee replacement surgery, especially in younger patients or those with less severe OA.

6. Safety Profile

PRP is derived from the patient’s own blood, making it a safe option with minimal side effects. Stem cell therapy also has a favorable safety profile when performed correctly. Patients typically experience only mild discomfort after injections.

Conclusion

The combination of PRP and stem cell therapy presents a promising non-surgical option for treating knee osteoarthritis. By enhancing tissue regeneration, providing pain relief, and improving joint function, this approach could significantly benefit patients seeking alternatives to traditional treatments.

Treatment package

Siam Clinic offer various package for the OA Knee treatment without surgery