Cell Therapy for Joints in Bloemfontein

PRP is platelet-rich plasma prepared from your blood; SVF is a cell fraction isolated from a small sample of your adipose tissue. They work in different ways and are often combined for a stronger regenerative effect in the joint.

Because both methods use your own tissue, the risk of rejection or allergy is very low. As with any injection, there may be temporary pain, swelling or bruising, and infection is rare. At the consultation the doctor explains the risks in your case.

Duration is individual. PRP often works for several months to about a year, while SVF may last longer. It depends on the stage of the condition and your body, which is why no one can promise a fixed result.

Contraindications include cancer, acute infections, blood clotting disorders, pregnancy and a flare-up of a serious chronic illness; in these cases the procedure is not performed. The doctor checks this at the consultation.

In early stages, a combination of PRP or SVF injections, exercise therapy and physiotherapy can reduce pain and improve movement. Where the joint is already badly damaged, replacement may be more realistic; the doctor will be honest with you once your scans are reviewed.

At early stages (1–2), SVF therapy may be considered to support blood supply to the femoral head and delay the need for joint replacement. At later stages surgery is usually required.

Replacement means major surgery, a long rehabilitation, risks including infection and implants that may eventually have to be redone. When changes are early or moderate, trying to preserve your own joint first often makes sense.

Of course. Send the X-rays, MRI, CT or medical reports you have; a doctor reviews them free and tells you if the procedure could suit you and what further steps may be needed.

Usually a day or two is enough. There is no long rehabilitation and no crutches, and in the first weeks you follow the doctor's recommendations on load and exercise.

The doctor first establishes what is causing the pain: PRP is used for shoulder joint and rotator cuff problems, and SVF may be considered for more advanced arthritis of the shoulder. Suitability depends on that cause.