Can Stem Cell Therapy Be Used to Treat Rheumatoid Arthrtitis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease causing inflammation of the joints and destruction of healthy joint tissue. The condition is chronic and progressive and may result in severe disability. For some patients, stem cell therapy may be a good treatment option.

Traditional Treatment 

Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and lifestyle changes are cornerstones of treatment for rheumatoid arthritis, no matter what other treatments are also used. Patients use exercises to maintain their range of motion and to control pain, allowing them to continue normal activities as much as possible. Lifestyle changes such as sleeping on one's back on a flat, hard mattress are also essential. 

The drug therapy of rheumatoid arthritis includes non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as well as steroid treatment and other immosuppressing drugs, such as methotrexate. All of these medications can play an important role in treating rheumatoid arthritis patients, but they also come with significant risks and side effects that can be problematic.

Stem Cell Therapy

Stem cells are cells that have the ability to differentiate into any other type of cell. Stem cells are abundant in human embryos and umbilical cord blood. They can also be derived from a healthy adult's bone marrow, blood, or fat. 

Studies and clinical experiences suggest that stem cells have have powerful anti-inflammatory and healing effects. They may reduce the inflammation in the joints more powerfully than can be achieved with other methods. They may even heal damaged joint tissue. Stem cell therapy can also modulate the immune response involved in rheumatoid arthritis. 

Stem cell therapy for rheumatoid arthritis can take several forms depending on the patient's needs and the progression of the disease. The stem cells used may be either from umbilical cord blood, which is donated after birth, or from the patient's own body. In some cases, the affected joints may be injected with stem cells. This is common if relatively few joints are affected. Other times, stem cells may be administered intravenously so that they can travel throughout the body.

Your Consultation

Only a doctor can tell you whether or not stem cell therapy is a good choice for you given your current condition, your responses to other treatments, and your personal preferences. At your consultation, Dr. Datta will carefully assess your joint health and work with you to choose treatments that will help you meet your goals.

Dr. Datta would be happy to meet with you about whether stem cell therapy is right for your rheumatoid arthritis. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or give us a call at (212) 430-0312.