Stem Cell Therapy for Knee Osteoarthritis in Seoul

Nanoori Stem Cell Center, Gangnam

Knee osteoarthritis can turn stairs, long walks, and workouts into daily challenges. At Nanoori Stem Cell Center, our orthopedic team provides stem cell–assisted care for carefully selected KOA cases—combining image-guided procedures with knee-smart rehab to reduce pain, improve function, and help delay joint replacement.

Who This Is For

  • Early–to–moderate KOA (activity-related pain, morning stiffness, swelling)
  • Focal chondral/osteochondral defects or post-meniscal wear
  • Patients seeking active, non-surgical options before arthroplasty
  • Individuals who can commit to structured rehab and lifestyle changes

What We Do (Case-By-Case)

  • Autologous cell concentrates (bone-marrow or adipose derived) prepared in a sterile workflow
  • Biologic adjuncts (e.g., PRP/PRF) when indicated to optimize the joint milieu
  • Precision delivery (ultrasound/fluoro ± arthroscopy) to the target compartment/lesion
  • Knee-smart rehab (gait retraining, glute/quad strengthening, joint unloading)

How Treatment Works

  1. Orthopedic Evaluation & Imaging
    X-ray/MRI to map cartilage loss, alignment (varus/valgus), and synovitis.
  2. Personalized Plan
    Confirm candidacy; consider braces/insoles, weight strategy, and activity edits.
  3. Harvest → Processing → Targeted Injection
    Same-day procedure with local anesthesia or light sedation.
  4. Rehab & Lifestyle Protocol
    Phased loading: mobility → isometrics → strength → return to preferred activities.

Expected Timeline (Typical)

  • Weeks 0–2: Calmer joint, reduced reactive swelling; gentle mobility
  • Weeks 3–8: Strength and gait improvements; longer walking tolerance
  • Months 3–6: Endurance and stability gains; hiking/light sport re-entry
  • 12+ months: Maintenance via alignment care, weight control, and training hygiene
    Timelines vary by wear pattern, alignment, weight, and adherence to rehab.

Advantages vs. Conventional Care

  • Targets cartilage biology and synovial inflammation, not just symptoms
  • May delay or reduce need for arthroscopy/arthroplasty in suitable cases
  • Hospital setting with imaging precision and sterile processing
  • Integrated plan (rehab + unloading + lifestyle) for more durable outcomes

Safety & Considerations

  • Temporary soreness/bruising at harvest or injection sites is common
  • Not ideal for end-stage “bone-on-bone” arthritis or severe instability
  • Outcomes depend on alignment, BMI, activity load, and program compliance
  • All care is doctor-supervised in a hospital environment

What to Bring

  • Recent X-ray/MRI, medication list, prior procedure notes (if any)
  • Footwear/orthotics you use daily and activity goals (work/sport/travel)

FAQ

Is this a cure for KOA?
No. It aims to reduce pain and improve function; progression may slow with joint-smart habits.

How many treatments will I need?
Many patients undergo one procedure plus structured rehab; complex lesions may need staged care.

Will I still need a knee replacement later?
Some patients avoid or delay surgery; candidacy depends on wear severity and alignment.

Practical Info (International Patients)

  • Center: Nanoori Stem Cell Center (Gangnam, Seoul)
  • Language: English-friendly coordination
  • Next Step: Book a knee evaluation + imaging review to confirm candidacy and timeline


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