Stem Cell for Joints and Osteoarthritis

HOW STEM CELL THERAPY WORKS for Joints
Osteoarthritis and joint disorders occur when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of bones gradually breaks down, leaving the underlying bone exposed and vulnerable. This degeneration triggers chronic inflammation, pain, stiffness, and progressive loss of mobility, a cycle that conventional treatments like painkillers and anti-inflammatories can only temporarily interrupt, without addressing the structural damage beneath.

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are the body's natural repair specialists. When introduced directly into the affected joint, they have the unique ability to differentiate into chondrocytes, the cells responsible for building and maintaining cartilage. Beyond this, MSCs release a cascade of anti-inflammatory signalling molecules called cytokines that suppress the chronic inflammation driving tissue destruction. They also stimulate the activity of resident joint cells, encouraging the production of new extracellular matrix, the structural scaffolding of healthy cartilage tissue.

Studies have shown that MSC therapy can meaningfully reduce pain scores, improve joint range of motion, and slow the radiological progression of cartilage loss. At Merkel Clinic, our orthopaedic stem cell protocol is tailored to each patient's joint condition, severity, and treatment goals, ensuring the most targeted and effective intervention possible.

In Simple Terms..
Think of your joint cartilage like the rubber padding between two bones. In OA, that padding wears down until the bones grind against each other, and that's where the pain comes from. Stem cells act like your body's own repair crew: once injected into the joint, they get to work rebuilding the worn-out cushioning, calming down the swelling, and helping the joint move more freely again. It's not just about masking the pain — it's about actually fixing what's broken.

PACKAGE INCLUDES
• Initial consultation
• Stem cell extraction & laboratory processing
• Intra-articular stem cell injection (targeted joint)
• Post-procedure plans
• Follow-up consultation (4 weeks)
• Comprehensive treatment report
• 3-night hotel accommodation (patient & companion)
• Airport & clinic transfers included