From the Research
The current evidence suggests that adipose-derived stem cell (ADSC) injections may provide short-term improvements in pain and function for osteoarthritis, but the evidence is limited and mixed, and therefore, it is not strongly recommended as a treatment option. The most recent and highest quality study, published in 2023 1, found that intra-articular injection of autologous ADSCs or stromal vascular fractions showed significant pain relief and functional improvement at 6 and 12 months, without serious adverse events. However, the study also noted that the evidence for cartilage regeneration remains limited. Other studies, such as those published in 2016 2, 2020 3, 2018 4, and 2022 5, have also investigated the use of ADSCs for osteoarthritis treatment, but their findings are not as robust as the 2023 study. Some key points to consider when evaluating the evidence for ADSC injections for osteoarthritis include:
- The optimal dosing and preparation methods for ADSCs are unclear
- Patient selection criteria for this treatment are not well established
- The mechanism of action for ADSCs in osteoarthritis treatment is thought to involve anti-inflammatory properties and potential tissue repair, rather than actual cartilage regeneration
- Standard treatments like physical therapy, weight management, anti-inflammatory medications, and eventually joint replacement surgery remain the established approaches for osteoarthritis management with stronger evidence bases. Overall, while ADSC injections may hold promise as a treatment option for osteoarthritis, further research is needed to fully establish their safety and efficacy.