Rotator cuff tears are common yet frustrating injuries. Up to 4 million people per year suffer trauma at the rotator cuff, the tissues which connect the muscle to bone in around the shoulder joint. This complex band of tissue holds the arm bone in place and supports a significant range of motion – the greatest in the whole body, in fact. Yet, when the tissue is torn, the shoulder is dislocated, or another type of injury occurs at the site, movement can be significantly diminished.
Often caused by repetitive motions such as swinging a golf club or hitting a tennis racket, this injury can cause significant pain and make everyday activities a challenge. Oftentimes, shoulder replacement injuries are recommended to recover function and address discomfort. Now, however, patients have the option of stem cell therapy for rotator cuff tears.
What Is Stem Cell Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears?
Stem cell therapy is a type of regenerative medicine in which stem cells are injected to the site of the injury under ultrasound guidance. Stem cells can be harvested from the patient’s own adipose tissue or donated umbilical cord-derived tissue, and have the ability to self-renew, differentiate into any cell type, and reduce inflammation and pain.
What Are the Benefits of Stem Cell Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears?
- Less Invasive Procedure
As with many surgical procedures, a total shoulder replacement is invasive and requires the use of anesthesia. There is also a small risk of serious complications, such as bleeding, infection, and shoulder instability. - Quick Recovery & Minimal Downtime
Traditional shoulder replacement surgery requires a hospital stay of up to three days, physical therapy, and limited mobility. With stem cell therapy, patients have the ability for a quicker recovery and return to normal activities, as well as minimal post-procedure pain, as long as post-treatment directives are followed. - Researched Results
Depending on the degree of damaged tissues, some may require more than one treatment and patients can expect to return to their favorite activities over time. Research has shown patients who receive the treatment experience improved stability and range of motion, as well as reduced swelling and discomfort.
This post was written by Becky Palmer, a medical professional at Stemedix Inc. At Stemedix we provide access to Regenerative Medicine for the joints, also known as stem cell therapy for joints! Regenerative medicine has the natural potential to help improve symptoms sometimes lost from the progression of many conditions.