Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy – Intra-Articular (Joint Injection, 50M MSCs/year)

About the procedure

This treatment consists of injecting MSCs directly into the affected joint (e.g., knee, shoulder, hip) using a needle and guided via ultrasound. At Lonvida, we aim for a cumulative dose of 50 million cells per year (e.g., 3–4 sessions of ~25–35M each) to maximize regenerative potential and delay progression toward joint replacement.

How it works

• Trophic and immunomodulatory effects: MSCs secrete anti-inflammatory cytokines, reduce catabolic mediators, and promote cartilage matrix maintenance. Randomized trials show significantly improved pain and function at 12 months (WOMAC, VAS, KOOS), with high doses reliably effective. 

• Cartilage repair: Doses of 50 million autologous MSCs have demonstrated increased cartilage volume and hyaline-like tissue regeneration (type II collagen) on MRI up to 6 months following injection. 

• Dose efficacy: Meta-analysis indicates that even lower doses (≤25 million) provide significant benefit, though Lonvida’s cumulative 50M/year approach aligns with optimal regeneration and durability. 

Safety of the treatment

Intra-articular MSC injections are generally safe. Adverse events are similar to controls (e.g., hyaluronic acid), with no significant increase in adverse effects. 

Contraindications include: active joint infection, bleeding disorders, autoimmune flare or malignancy, pregnancy/lactation—follow tissue-bank and clinical guidelines.

Duration of effect

Clinical improvement develops within weeks to months, with sustained pain relief and function gains for 6–12 months or longer, depending on cell dose and lifestyle. Repeated dosing (totaling ~50M/year) enhances durability.

Pre-treatment Instructions

• Attend with clean skin, no creams or oils at injection site.
  
  

• Stop NSAIDs 48 hours prior (if medically appropriate).
  
  

• Bring list of medications—note anticoagulants or immunosuppressants.
  
  

• Avoid active joint infection or flare; baseline evaluation may include labs or imaging.
  
  

Post-treatment Instructions

• Mild pain, swelling, bruising, or stiffness are normal post-injection and resolve in days.
  
  

• Avoid weight-bearing or strenuous activity for at least 48 hours; then gradually resume.
  
  

• Use cold compresses and analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen) as needed.
  
  

• Monitor symptoms—report increased pain, fever, or signs of infection.
  
  

Long-term considerations

• Lonvida protocol: cumulatively reach 50 million MSCs per year, spread across multiple injections or one.
  
  

• Combine with joint-friendly exercise, weight control, and nutrition for maximum effect.
  
  

• Reassess at 3–4 months post-injection series; consider maintenance decision.
  
  

• Imaging (e.g., MRI or ultrasound) may be used to track cartilage changes and guide therapy.