WHAT ARE STEM CELLS?

Stem cells are found throughout the body and specifically mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are specialized cells that have shown to have anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and regenerative properties. They are also known to have anti-scarring, antimicrobial, and anti-oxidative effects. Stem cells used in the clinical setting are typically obtained from adipose (fat), bone marrow, amniotic fluid/amnion, or umbilical cord Wharton’s jelly. The stem cells are either used in its original state during procurement, or they can be culture-expanded to much larger quantities of cells not normally found in the body

HOW DO STEM CELLS WORK?

Mesenchymal stem cells can differentiate into various types of tissue and they also have paracrine effects. These paracrine effects involve the release of bioactive molecules that can stimulate neighboring cells and provide maintenance, prevent cell damage, mediate inflammation, attract components to an area, and support regeneration.

BENEFITS OF STEM CELLS

Because of the dynamic properties of MSC's, researchers worldwide have been investigating the use of stem cells since the 1960s. Promising findings through research for many different health problems has fueled more interest and funding for additional clinical studies to find ways to utilize the unique properties of stem cells as medical treatments. Over the last decade, over 1000 human clinical research trials involving close to 50,000 patients evaluating stem cell use has been documented worldwide demonstrating its safety profile and promising results. Applications of stem cells have mainly focused on people who are suffering from difficult wounds, physical ailments, and diseases that are often inadequately addressed with conventional medicine, including pharmaceutical drugs and surgery.

WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR STEM CELLS?

Ideal candidates for stem cell treatments are individuals seeking a non-surgical solution for pain relief and tissue healing. These include people with chronic joint pain, arthritis, chondromalacia (cartilage damage), meniscus tears, labral tears, ligament sprains and tears, tendinosis and tendon partial tears, and muscle injuries. Stem cells may be helpful in situations where traditional treatments such as rest, medications, chiropractic care, acupuncture, and physical therapy have not helped. Candidates may be seeking an alternative to surgery. A formal consultation with Dr. Yoon will be needed to determine if this treatment is appropriate.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT WITH STEM CELL TREATMENT?

The consultation with Dr. Yoon will consist of a thorough evaluation and discussion. Dr. Yoon’s office will also provide a pre and post treatment guideline handout if treatment is pursued. Most treatments require abstaining from the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) one week before and two weeks after the procedure to allow the treatments to naturally work. Because many treatment protocols are tailored to the specific needs of the patient, expectations post treatment will be carefully explained beforehand. Necessary prescriptions for orthotics and other braces, biomechanics evaluations, physical therapy prescriptions, specific location and provider referrals, and other needs will be provided. Continuous patient follow-up will occur at specific timepoints to optimize treatment results.

WHY CHOOSE DR. STEVE YOON FOR STEM CELL TREATMENT?

Dr. Steve Yoon is a highly regarded biologics expert utilizing stem cell treatments in professional sports making him a top choice for stem cell therapy for patients in Los Angeles and around the country. He has extensive experience utilizing stem cells while in his role as Director of Clinical Regenerative Medicine at the Cedars Sinai Kerlan Jobe Institute and as a treating consultant for the vast majority of professional sports teams and sports agencies throughout the country. Dr. Yoon has successfully treated patients over two decades while specializing in the use of stem cells and other regenerative therapies to enhance recovery and performance. His personalized and tailored approach with patients and helping them with their quality of life has earned him numerous honors including being recognized annually in Los Angeles as a Super Doctor as well as a Top Doctor nationally by Castle Connolly.

RESEARCH ARTICLES

Zhu C, Wu W, Qu X. Mesenchymal stem cells in osteoarthritis therapy: a review. Am J Transl Res. 2021;13(2):448-461.

Wiggers TGH, Winters M, Van den Boom NAC, Haisma HJ, Moen MH. Autologous stem cell therapy in knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials. Br J Sports Med. 2021;55(20):1161-1169. doi:10.1136/bjsports-2020-103671.

Long Z, Zhang M, Zhang T, et al. The effectiveness and safety of mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 28 randomized controlled trials. Stem Cells Int. 2022;2022:6151866. doi:10.1155/2022/6151866.

Sadeghirad B, Rehman Y, Khosravirad A, et al. Mesenchymal stem cells for chronic knee pain secondary to osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials. Osteoarthritis Cartilage. 2024;32(10):1207-1219. doi:10.1016/j.joca.2024.04.021.

Tang X, Huang H, Hao L. Decadal analysis of efficacy and safety profiles of mesenchymal stem cells from varied sources in knee osteoarthritis patients: a systematic review and network meta-analysis. Exp Gerontol. 2024;192:112460. doi:10.1016/j.exger.2024.112460.

Tian X, Qu Z, Ying C, et al. Relative efficacy and safety of mesenchymal stem cells for osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2024;15:1366297. doi:10.3389/fendo.2024.1366297.

Trapana J, Weinerman J, Lee D, et al. Cell-based therapy in the treatment of musculoskeletal diseases. Stem Cells Transl Med. 2024;13(10):959-978. doi:10.1093/stcltm/szae049.

Kyriakidis T, Ferenets R, Owczarek M, et al. Stem cells for the treatment of early to moderate osteoarthritis of the knee: a systematic review. J Exp Orthop. 2023;10(1):38. doi:10.1186/s40634-023-00665-1.