Ms. Huang is from Hebei, started experiencing soreness and weakness in both knees eight years ago. At that time, the symptoms were relatively mild and could be relieved by keeping warm. When the pain became severe, she sought medical help, but the results were not very satisfactory. Some doctors suggested surgery to replace the joints with artificial ones. However, upon hearing about the operation, Ms. Huang and her family were worried about the serious consequences that might arise from a failed surgery, so they gave up the surgical treatment. Later, due to the high humidity in the weather, her condition worsened. She came to our hospital and was diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis, which is suitable for stem cell treatment.
Pre-Treatment Condition (Before the First Course of Treatment)
• Sleep Disturbance: She frequently woke up in the middle of the night because of the pain. The prolonged lack of sleep, combined with the pain, led to a substantial weight loss for Ms. Huang.
• Severe Pain and Weakness: Both of her knees were extremely sore and weak, with the pain being unbearable. This also had a negative impact on her sleep quality.
• Physical Examination Findings: When Ms. Huang visited our hospital, the doctor's examination revealed tenderness on the inner and outer sides of both knee joints; her ability to squat was severely restricted.
First Course of Stem Cell Treatment (Sept 2013)
Outcomes After the First Course of Treatment
• Alleviated Pain and Overall Discomfort : Ms. Huang reported that after the treatment, she had been diligently following the advice of resting at home and keeping her knee joints warm. As a result, the pain in her knees had significantly subsided. The unbearable pain that once plagued her had transformed into a mild discomfort that no longer affected her daily activities. Moreover, she no longer felt any discomfort in her body, which had a positive impact on her overall well-being.
• Enhanced Quality of Life Aspects: Her sleep quality had improved substantially. No longer was she waking up in the middle of the night due to pain, allowing her to enjoy a full night's rest. This, in turn, led to an increased appetite. With better sleep and a good diet, her complexion had become rosier, a clear sign of improved health. Additionally, she had even managed to gain some weight, reversing the weight loss she experienced during her illness.
Progress Summary & Future Outlook
Looking forward, the positive results of Ms. Huang's first course of stem cell treatment lay a solid foundation for her long-term recovery. This successful treatment not only gives her a better quality of life but also offers hope to other patients with knee osteoarthritis. With time, she can expect to lead a pain - free and active life, free from the limitations that once bound her.