Hip and Knee Replacements May Become a Thing of the Past

Researchers say a future of hip or knee “replacements” done without surgery may be on the horizon. By employing a combination of drugs and stem-cell therapies, it may be possible to “repair cartilage before osteoarthritis sets in or an operation is needed.”

Osteoarthritis, commonly afflicting the elderly, is a degenerative disease attributed to "wear and tear" but can also be caused by earlier sports injuries, obesity and other trauma to the cartilage around the knee, hip or shoulder joints. Experts explain the loss of cartilage, which does not have its own blood supply or nerves, limits its ability to mend itself and is the major cause of joint pain and arthritis affecting over 32.5 million people in the U.S. In 2017 alone, there were 754,000 knee replacements done and 448,000 hip replacements.

Michael Longaker, a professor of surgery at Stanford University School of Medicine and co-director of its Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, explains the goal of his research is to not wait for osteoarthritis to develop, but to halt the degenerative process so people never need to have a joint replaced. His team’s focus is on programming stem cells to become cartilage cells. Other researchers are working to develop drugs that stop the progression of “wear and tear” on joints. Researchers are also looking at methods to “effectively deliver new cells and compounds” as well as designing materials to help new cells integrate with existing tissue. Scientists admit they still have a ways to go before they will have alternative therapies in place but remain optimistic.

At MorningStar at River Oaks, we have 85 private stylish suites for assisted living and another 27 suites for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementia-related diseases. Our residents enjoy healthy, delicious meals served all-day in our full-service dining room, luxury amenities, wellness programs and built-in companionship. We are committed to provide the best senior living Houston offers and invite you to set up a tour to see our exceptional community.

MorningStar takes tremendous pride in the reputation we have earned for excellence and authenticity since our inception in 2003. We believe the human capacity to grow, to learn and to contribute is ageless; and we act upon that truth daily, as we protect, inspire, and love the alzheimers care residents under our roof. Contact us to learn more about the finest senior living Houston has to offer.

Source:wsj.com/articles/a-knee-or-hip-replacement-without-surgery-its-on-the-horizon-11631196055

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