As summer heat intensifies, many individuals, particularly those with knee osteoarthritis, face heightened joint pain. For middle-aged and older adults, the rainy season’s humidity and high temperatures can worsen discomfort. Lower atmospheric pressure elevates relative pressure within joints, exacerbating pain.
Knee osteoarthritis, a prevalent degenerative disease, arises when cartilage in the knee joint progressively wears away, leading to pain and reduced mobility. Primarily affecting older adults due to age-related cartilage deterioration, it is also influenced by poor posture, obesity, trauma, and genetic predisposition. Early symptoms include stiffness and pain during activities like climbing stairs. As the condition progresses, pain intensifies, often accompanied by swelling or restricted movement.
Treatment varies by disease stage. Early interventions include medications, physical therapy, weight management, and exercise. For moderate to severe cases, options such as intra-articular injections (hyaluronic acid, platelet-rich plasma, or corticosteroids), manual therapy, or extracorporeal shockwave therapy may be employed. End-stage cases may necessitate joint replacement surgery. A promising alternative for moderate osteoarthritis, however, is gaining traction: autologous stromal vascular fraction (SVF) injection therapy.
SVF, or stromal vascular fraction, is a cell population derived from a patient’s own adipose tissue, typically extracted from the abdomen or thigh. It comprises stem cells, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and immune-regulating cells, which collectively support tissue repair, modulate inflammation, and enhance knee joint function.
The SVF procedure involves harvesting adipose tissue, processing it through enzymatic digestion and centrifugation to isolate concentrated stromal vascular cells, and injecting them directly into the knee joint. This approach is particularly effective for elderly patients, those unresponsive to standard treatments, or individuals seeking to avoid surgery. It is most beneficial when cartilage damage is not extensive. Using the patient’s own tissue minimizes immune rejection risks, and the outpatient procedure allows for swift recovery.
Dr. Yong-gon Go, director of YonseiSarang Hospital, underscored the value of SVF therapy: “For patients aiming to delay or prevent end-stage knee osteoarthritis, SVF injections using autologous tissue offer a compelling option. Beyond relieving joint pain, this treatment provides anti-inflammatory benefits, serving as a viable alternative for those wary of surgery. To thrive in the hot season, adequate hydration, low-impact exercise, early diagnosis, and structured treatment are essential.”
Health In News Team Kim Kuk Ju
press@hinews.co.kr
