Body fat used to treat joint injuries

This article was published on: 05/24/17

Wear and tear injuries can affect movement in later life. So much so that even usual remedies will not always suffice. When physical therapy, steroid injections and anti inflammatory drugs are not working, perhaps this is the next step?

Positive trials

A selection of around 100 patients have trialed a new idea, their own bodies providing fat tissue to treat joints. The process being looked into wishes to identify painful, seizing joints and find a natural way to treat the discomfort.

The process is very simple:

  • Firstly, Fat is taken from the patient
  • It is cleaned and prepared
  • It is injected into the problem area
  • Finally, The patient is sent home with antibiotics and painkillers

The minor procedure performed under local anesthetic as part of a day case. Because the anesthetic is local, the patient can go home the same day. The testing was carried out at the King Abdulaziz University Hospital in Saudi Arabia.

Much like oiling a car, fat deposits can better lubricate and loosen a joint. While the method is not a permanent fix it can provide much needed relief for long term joint problems and arthritic type injuries like osteoarthritis.

Next steps

The obvious next step would be to find a permanent solution to the problem. Potentially, this is where stem cell research could play a big part. Further research and trials being carried out (In the United States) has doctors excited at future prospects.

Dr Cole from the Rush University Medical Centre spoke of the intention to test whether the fat tissues would be good for stem cells. He confirms they would “investigate the role of stem cells and growth factors that are present in the small blood vessels in fat.”

The legal side

Should you suffer any injury because of somebody else’s negligence; one that affects your joints for a time after the incident; you can be rest assured that treatment costs are covered by those responsible. Scott Rees & Co have done just that for over 25 years. We assist with achieving full compensation for all injury types.

If you suffered an injury that wasn’t your fault, you have every right to compensate for costs that arise. This may include ongoing care, medication, financial losses from work and more. Injury solicitors are there to set you right; ensuring you don’t suffer more for your injury.

If you or anybody you know has suffered an arthritic injury or any other type, get in touch with our team. We offer free, impartial and conscientious advice to give you honest feedback on how best to move forward.

If you’d like to speak to an adviser you can either call 01695 722 222 (lines open Monday to Friday from 9am until 7pm) or you can fill out our online claim form. Afterwards we can assess the circumstances and offer you free, expert guidance. While we are based in Skelmersdale in the North West, can do serve the entire UK.

Get in touch today to start your no win no fee claim. If your claim is unsuccessful you will not have to pay a penny. So call today to see what Scott Rees & Co can do for you.