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Regenerative Orthopedics
Exosome Therapy for Knee Pain: Growth Factors from Stem Cells
Exosome therapy is a modern intra-articular approach designed to support tissue regeneration using growth factors and biological signals secreted by stem cells. With proper orthopedic evaluation and patient selection, it may reduce knee pain and improve function.
What Are Exosomes, How Do They Work in the Knee?
Exosomes are microscopic vesicles that mediate intercellular communication. They carry growth factors, proteins, microRNAs, and signaling molecules that can contribute to modulating inflammation, supporting chondrocytes, and initiating tissue repair. Targeted application to the knee aims to reduce pain and make daily activities easier.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
- Early–moderate osteoarthritis
- Pain and dysfunction due to cartilage and/or meniscus pathology
- Persistent pain despite medications, physiotherapy, or other injections
- Patients not willing or not suitable for surgery
Our recommendation: Eligibility should be confirmed after examination and, when needed, imaging (MRI/US). Correct patient selection is pivotal for success.
Who May Not Be Suitable?
- Advanced joint deformity with significant mechanical locking
- Active infection or local skin lesions at the injection site
- Uncontrolled systemic disease or bleeding disorders
- Potential interactions with recent treatments (assessed by your physician)
Preparation Before the Procedure
- Inform your doctor about medications (anticoagulants, anti-inflammatories, etc.); adjustments may be needed.
- Recent labs and imaging (last 3–6 months) are reviewed.
- On the day, maintain local hygiene and wear comfortable clothing.
How Is It Performed?
Exosomes are administered intra-articularly under outpatient conditions using a single-use sterile needle. Ultrasound guidance may be preferred for accuracy. The procedure is generally brief and does not require hospitalization.
After the Procedure
- Relative rest and ice application may be advised for the first 24–48 hours.
- Your physician will prescribe a graded exercise/physiotherapy plan.
- Return to daily life is usually quick; heavy loading increases gradually.
- Depending on the case, a single session or a series protocol may be planned.
Expected Effects & Timeline
- Weeks 1–2: Early reduction in tenderness; some patients may feel transient fullness.
- Weeks 3–6: Target reduction in pain scores and easier walking/stairs.
- Months 2–3: With exercise, further gains in range of motion and function are expected.
Note: Individual response varies. Age, weight, activity level, comorbidities, and concurrent therapies (e.g., physiotherapy) influence outcomes.
Factors That Enhance Success
- Correct indication and patient selection
- Guided, accurate targeting (e.g., ultrasound)
- Personalized physiotherapy/exercise plan
- Weight management and joint-protection principles
Comparison With Other Injections (Summary)
| Method | Primary Goal | Pros | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exosomes | Tissue support via regenerative signaling | Repair-oriented approach; inflammation modulation | Outcome depends on selection and protocol adherence |
| PRP | Platelet-derived growth factors | Widely used; beneficial in selected cases | Preparation quality and protocols vary |
| Viscosupplementation (HA) | Increase joint lubrication | Short-term comfort improvement | Often limited and time-dependent effect |
| Corticosteroid | Suppress inflammation | Rapid short-term relief | Caution with repeated use; no structural support |
FAQs
Will my pain disappear completely?
The goal is to reduce pain and improve function; complete pain relief cannot be guaranteed and varies by individual.
How long is the recovery?
Clinical improvement is often observed within weeks; when combined with exercise, gains tend to be more stable.
What are the side effects?
Temporary soreness/tenderness and mild swelling can occur. The procedure is performed under sterile conditions. Your physician will assess individual risks.
How many sessions are needed?
Some patients benefit from a single session; others may follow a series protocol depending on clinical status.
