As they age, many people suffer from degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis, a condition that is characterized by inflammation and pain. The disease was once thought to be progressive and incurable. But cartilage and joint restoration is now being undertaken by some orthopedic surgeons, in order to prevent the degeneration caused by the aging process. This is really good news for those with aging joints.
Joints and aging
Joints are protected by cartilage, which is spongy connective tissue located at the end of the bones. Cartilage is comprised of chondrocytes (cells that help with lubrication), proteoglycans, lipids, and collagen. However as time passes, the cartilage degenerates due to the constant motion that takes place. As a result of the deterioration of the cartilage, the joints become susceptible to pain and injury.
Dr. Frank McCormick, who operates out of South Florida, specializes in treatments that are meant to facilitate the restoration of cartilage and joints. Some of the options offered by Dr. McCormick to prevent the degeneration of cartilage and joints include:
- Microfracture – This is a procedure that repairs the injured joint by using stem cells to stimulate the growth of new cartilage.
- Stem cell implantation – Involves the growth of stem cells in the lab. The stem cells are then implanted in the joint to repair the damage.
- Cartilage Transplant – replacing the patient’s cartilage with the cartilage of a donor.
- Outpatient Surgery – This type of surgery reduces recovery time, and gives patients the chance to start physical therapy immediately.
If you are interested in learning more about these techniques for cartilage and joint restoration, you can contact Dr. McCormick at 1-866-956-3837. He has offices in Miami, Orlando, Doral, and Palm Beach.