Stem Cell Injection for Osteoarthritis

This trial explores a new treatment for people with chronic low back pain due to facet joint osteoarthritis. It compares the safety and effectiveness of adipose-derived (fat-based) stem cell injections with standard corticosteroid injections. Participants who have experienced back pain for at least six months and have not found relief from other treatments might be suitable candidates. The goal is to determine if stem cell injections can offer better pain relief or improve joint function compared to the usual treatment. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to investigate innovative treatments that could potentially offer new options for pain relief.

The trial protocol does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, certain medications like systemic corticosteroids and anticoagulants may need to be adjusted or stopped before participating. It's best to discuss your specific medications with the trial team.

Research has shown that injections using stem cells from fat tissue are generally well-tolerated by people with osteoarthritis. One study examined their use for a type of back arthritis and found no major safety issues, suggesting the treatment is relatively safe for similar conditions.

These fat-derived stem cells have also been used successfully in other arthritis treatments. They can help renew and repair tissues, making them a promising option.

Corticosteroid injections are another common treatment to manage pain and swelling. When administered by a doctor, they are safe, though some people might experience temporary soreness at the injection site.

Unlike standard treatments for osteoarthritis, which often involve pain relief through medications like NSAIDs or corticosteroids, adipose-derived stem cell injections offer a regenerative approach. This treatment is unique because it uses stem cells harvested from a patient's own fat tissue, aiming to repair and regenerate damaged joint tissues. Researchers are excited about this method as it targets the root cause of joint degeneration rather than just alleviating symptoms, potentially leading to longer-lasting relief and improved joint function. Additionally, the minimally invasive procedure might reduce downtime and side effects compared to more traditional surgical interventions.

Research shows that stem cells taken from fat tissue, known as adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs), may help treat osteoarthritis. These cells can reduce pain and improve joint function by aiding tissue repair. Studies have found that ADSCs effectively treat knee osteoarthritis, suggesting they might also help with back pain caused by osteoarthritis. Although more research is needed specifically for back pain, current evidence for joint conditions is promising. In this trial, one group of participants will receive adipose-derived stem cell injections, while another group will receive corticosteroid injections. Corticosteroids are commonly used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain but do not support long-term healing like stem cells might. These findings suggest that adipose-derived stem cells could offer a more lasting solution for pain related to osteoarthritis.¹³⁴⁵⁶