Osteoarthritis (OA) is among the most common joint disorders that significantly affect millions globally. It impacts mobility, independence and overall quality of life of the individual. Globally, more than 528 million individuals were affected by OA in 2019. While 73% of the individuals are >55 years [1]. The conventional treatment option involves medications for pain management, physical therapy, and surgery. Yet, they do not address underlying joint degeneration.
The evolving Regenerative Medicine for Osteoarthritis focuses on supporting the body’s natural repair process. Stem cell therapy is widely studied for its potential in reducing inflammation, improving joint function and enhancing long-term outcomes. The current article explores the science behind regenerative medicine, along with lifestyle management, including an osteoarthritis diet among individuals with OA.
How Does Osteoarthritis Progress Over Time?
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis that affects joints. The joints are capped with cartilage that absorbs shock and lubricates joints. They enable smoother and safer movement. In the case of OA, cartilage degenerates, leading to wear and tear. Eventually, the bones rub against each other, leading to bone damage. The major cause of OA can be:
- Primary OA: Joint degeneration occurs over time with an increase in age
- Secondary OA: Direct damage to the joints occurs due to injury or trauma. Eg: sport injury, accident, fall, etc.
The most common affected areas include hands, hips, knees, cervical spine, and lumbar spine.
What are Common Symptoms of OA?
The Common Symptoms of OA Include:
- Joint pain
- Stiffness
- Inflammation
- Decreased range of motion
- Fragile joint and the difference becomes noticeable
What are the Major Risk Factors?
OA Poses a Great Risk with the Existence of Certain Co-Morbid Conditions Such As:
- Obesity (higher body mass index)
- Metabolic disorder (Diabetes)
- Hyperlipidemia
- Autoimmune condition
Is There a Link Between Diet and Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis diet is a popular area of discussion in lifestyle intervention. Though it isn’t possible to enlist specific dietary items as nutritional supplements, certain food items can improve individuals’ symptoms. The list of certain food items includes:
- Oily Fish: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties, rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. Eg: salmon, mackerel, trout, herring, pilchards
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Contains a high quantity of oleocanthal that has similar properties to NSAIDs. Eg: Safflower oil
- Dark Leafy Greens: Rich source of Vitamin A, C, and K, antioxidants and calcium. Eg: Kale, spinach, collard greens, Brussels sprouts
- Dairy: Rich source of calcium and Vitamin D. eg: Milk, Yogurt
- Nuts: High content of calcium, magnesium, zinc, fibre, Vitamin E, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), boost the immune system. Eg: Almonds, Pistachios, Pine nuts, Walnuts
*NOTE: The osteoarthritis diet lists dietary items that can reduce inflammation significantly. It is crucial to gain guidelines from a dietitian for balanced food recommendations as per an individual’s needs and suitability
What Is Regenerative Medicine for Osteoarthritis?
Regenerative Medicine for Osteoarthritis is a rapidly evolving research area. It involves stem cell therapy for OA that uses the application of stem cells to support cartilage regeneration and boost the body’s natural repair mechanism. Scientists have widely explored mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from umbilical cord blood/tissue, adipose tissue or bone marrow in OA patients. These cells are multilineage, i.e. can differentiate into distinct cell types including chondrocytes, osteoblasts, and adipocytes.
Stem Cell Treatment for Osteoarthritis using MSCs focuses on the regeneration of the lost cartilage and boosts the repair mechanism. They release various bioactive materials that have anti-inflammatory properties and modulate immune response.
How Does Stem Cell Treatment for Osteoarthritis Work?
Osteoarthritis Stem Cell Treatment Undertakes the Following Key Mechanisms to Support Joint Health:
- Chondrogenesis: MSCs differentiate into chondrocytes (cells that support cartilage formation and maintenance). They replaced the damaged cartilage and restored its functional support. The cells release various bioactive molecules, including growth factors and cytokines, creating a paracrine effect.
- Paracrine Effect: MSCs release various anti-inflammatory molecules (IL-10) that neutralise pro-inflammatory effects. These molecules shift macrophages from a destructive state to a healing phase. MSCs modulate immune response and stimulate signalling cascades. Immunodulation prevents rejection of the stem cells and creates a supportive microenvironment
- Boost Repair Mechanism: MSCs stimulate recruitment of endogenous repair cells at the injury site. They boost the body’s natural repair mechanism. They block enzymes responsible for cartilage breakdown, prevent localised cell death and protect the existing chondrocytes.
What does Clinical Evidence Reveal?
Early Clinical Trial Outcomes on Regenerative Medicine for Osteoarthritis Unveiled:
- Patient receiving Stem Cell Therapy for Knee Osteoarthritis for 6 months, reported a lower pain score
- Improved physical function among patients who received stem cell injections
- In comparison with the placebo group, better improvement in clinical outcome was reported among the group treated with Osteoarthritis Stem Cell Treatment
- In some studies, regeneration of cartilage was reported, but complete reversal of the cartilage regeneration has not yet been achieved [2]
- Negligible studies reported adverse events with stem cell therapy among OA patients [2]
*NOTE: There is a need for large-scale long-term studies to infer the outcome related to cartilage regeneration, the ability to hinder disease progression, and long-term efficacy. Advancells, India, is a leading stem cell manufacturer that supplies clinical-grade cells for chronic diseases, including osteoarthritis.
Can an Osteoarthritis Diet Enhance the Benefits of Regenerative Medicine?
Regenerative medicine for Osteoarthritis supports the body’s natural repair mechanism, while its efficacy is supported by the overall health of the patient. The presence of chronic inflammation, obesity, and poor nutrition can induce additional stress on the joints. Osteoarthritis diet, along with regenerative medicine, creates a supportive environment. The crucial correlation that one must understand includes:
- Dietary intervention, including an anti-inflammatory diet, reduces inflammatory mediators
- High dietary intake of antioxidants protects joint tissues from oxidative stress
- Intake of lean protein, high fibre, and good fats aids in weight management. It prevents the mechanical stress on joints caused by obesity
- Avoid intake of sugar-sweetened beverages, ultra-processed food, refined carbohydrates, trans fats, and high sodium intake
- Dietary intervention is crucial for boosting musculoskeletal health. This indirectly creates supportive conditions for boosting the efficacy of regenerative medicine.
*NOTE: Along with dietary modification, regular low-impact exercise, strength training, adequate sleep, physical therapy and rehabilitation are crucial for the Osteoarthritis Stem Cell Treatment success.
Who Benefits from Stem Cell Treatment for Osteoarthritis?
- Individuals experiencing mild to moderate cartilage tear (Grade 1 to Grade 3)
- Individuals want to delay invasive procedure (knee replacement surgery)
- Individuals with overall maintained health conditions
*NOTE: Stem cell Treatment for Osteoarthritis is introduced as supportive therapy by clinicians to gain improved clinical outcomes.
Conclusion
Regenerative Medicine for Osteoarthritis strives to improve the quality of life of the patient. Early clinical studies have indicated positive trends, including pain management and motor support. A combination of regenerative medicine with conventional therapies and lifestyle intervention can potentially boost the treatment outcome. Large-scale studies are crucial to establish the long-term efficacy of regenerative medicine.
Reference
- World Health Organization. Osteoarthritis [Internet]. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2023 Jul 14. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/osteoarthritis
- Carneiro DD, Araújo LT, Santos GC, Damasceno PK, Vieira JL, Santos RR, Barbosa JD, Soares MB. Clinical trials with mesenchymal stem cell therapies for osteoarthritis: challenges in the regeneration of articular cartilage. International journal of molecular sciences. 2023 Jun 9;24(12):9939.
FAQ’s
Q- Can Stem Cells Cure OA?
No, stem cells cannot completely cure OA. The studies are at an early stage of research and clinical application. The evidence displays a positive outcome. Currently, stem cells used for OA act as supportive treatment along with conventional therapy to improve the quality of life of the patient.
Q- How long does Stem Cell Treatment for Osteoarthritis Last?
Current evidence displays the efficacy of stem cell treatment for osteoarthritis between 2 and 5 years. The outcome varied among patients. Several factors influence treatment outcome, including disease severity, overall health condition, quality and source of stem cells, administration procedure, lifestyle factors, etc.
Q- Can Osteoarthritis be Managed with Both Diet and Regenerative Medicine?
Clinicians are recommending regenerative medicine as a supportive treatment option to improve the treatment outcome. Dietary intervention by intake of balanced nutritional food can potentially support the overall health of the patient.
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