How Regenerative Medicine Can Help Spinal Arthritis
Spinal arthritis is a common condition that causes stiffness, inflammation, and chronic back or neck pain. Over time, it can interfere with your ability to move freely and enjoy daily activities. While traditional treatments may include pain relievers, injections, destruction of the nerves that signal arthritis pain (radiofrequency ablation), or even surgery, regenerative medicine offers a non-surgical option that supports healing from within.
At LifeStem, we provide innovative treatments like PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and stem cell therapy that target inflammation, promote tissue repair, and offer long-term relief for people living with spinal arthritis.
What Is Spinal Arthritis?
Spinal arthritis typically develops as cartilage between vertebrae breaks down over time, allowing bones to rub against each other. This can lead to bone spurs, joint inflammation, and pain. The most common form—osteoarthritis—affects the facet joints of the spine, which help stabilize and guide movement.
Symptoms may include:
- Persistent back or neck pain
- Stiffness, especially in the morning
- Limited range of motion
- Radiating pain, tingling, or numbness if nerves are involved
While aging is the primary cause, spinal arthritis can also be triggered by past injuries, genetics, repetitive stress, or obesity.
How Regenerative Medicine Offers Relief
Regenerative therapies address the root cause of arthritis pain by helping the body repair damaged tissue and reduce inflammation. They don’t just mask the symptoms—they aim to address the underlying damage.
PRP Therapy
PRP involves concentrating platelets from your own blood and injecting them into arthritic joints. These platelets release growth factors that:
- Reduce inflammation
- Promote healing in soft tissues
- Stimulate collagen and cartilage repair
This therapy is minimally invasive with virtually no down time. It may replace the need for steroid injections, radiofrequency ablation, or surgery.
Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cells have the unique ability to develop into different types of cells, such as cartilage or connective tissue. When injected into arthritic areas of the spine, they may:
- Support tissue regeneration
- Ease joint stiffness
- Improve overall joint function
Benefits of Regenerative Therapies for Spinal Arthritis
- Non-surgical: These procedures are done in-office and require little to no downtime.
- Long-lasting relief: Many patients experience continued improvement over weeks or months as tissues repair.
- Reduced reliance on medications: PRP and stem cells may lessen the need for anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroids.
- Targeted treatment: Injections are placed directly in the affected joints, delivering results where they’re needed most.
What to Expect During Treatment
At LifeStem, your treatment begins with a comprehensive evaluation. If regenerative medicine is right for you, we’ll outline a personalized care plan. Most patients tolerate the procedure well and can return to regular activity within a few days.
Results vary, but many people notice gradual improvements in pain and movement within a few weeks of treatment.
Final Thoughts
Spinal arthritis doesn’t have to mean a lifetime of medication or invasive surgery. Regenerative treatments like PRP and stem cell therapy provide a natural way to reduce pain and support long-term spinal health. If you’re struggling with back or neck pain caused by arthritis, schedule a consultation with LifeStem to explore whether regenerative care is right for you.