Joint injuries , whether caused by overuse, trauma, or degeneration, can be both painful and debilitating. For many, traditional treatments like rest, physical therapy, and medications offer limited relief, and in some cases, surgical intervention may be the only option.
Modern regenerative medicine adds another non-surgical option to that list: Human Cellular Tissue Therapy (HCTT), which uses donated, screened human cellular tissue from umbilical cord.
At Envista Medical, we are proud to offer this cutting-edge therapy as part of our full range of non-surgical care for joint injuries.
Here's how Human Cellular Tissue Therapy works, what patients like about it, and how to find out whether it fits your joint.
How Human Cellular Tissue Therapy Works
Joint injuries—whether due to trauma, wear and tear, or chronic conditions like osteoarthritis—can result in damaged cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and muscles.
The body's ability to heal these tissues can be limited, especially as we age. That is why so many people ask about regenerative options like HCTT.
Here's how HCTT works:
Where the Tissue Comes From: The human cellular tissue used in HCTT comes from donated umbilical cord tissue after a healthy, consented birth, and it is screened and carefully prepared in a laboratory before it is used.
It is injected directly into the injured joint.
What the Research Says: Chronic inflammation is a common result of joint injuries and degenerative conditions, leading to persistent pain, stiffness and swelling. Cells from umbilical cord tissue are an active area of regenerative medicine research, including clinical trials in knee arthritis.
Our medical team walks you through what that research does and does not show for your joint.
It is one more non-surgical option to discuss with our licensed medical team, alongside rehabilitation and other care.
Part of a Full Plan: Joint injuries can often lead to reduced mobility and impaired function. Whether it's a sprained ligament, a torn tendon or cartilage damage, these injuries can make it difficult to perform everyday activities. HCTT can sit alongside rehabilitation in a plan built around the activities you want back.
Rehabilitation builds the flexibility, strength and mobility that get you back to normal activities.
A Step Before Surgery: In many cases, surgery is considered the last resort for treating joint injuries. Surgery can involve lengthy recovery periods, potential complications and significant rehabilitation. Human Cellular Tissue Therapy is a minimally invasive option to explore first.
As an injection, it comes with less downtime than surgery.
Why Patients Ask About Human Cellular Tissue Therapy
Here is what patients like about it:
- Minimally Invasive and Minimally Painful: Unlike traditional surgery, HCTT involves minimal discomfort. The procedure typically requires only a small injection, and most patients experience only mild soreness at the injection site. There's no need for lengthy recovery periods or extended time off work, making HCTT a convenient option for many individuals.
- Donated Tissue: The tissue comes from donated umbilical cord, so nothing is taken from your own body, and your plan is built around your exam and your specific injury.
- Part of a Long-Term Plan: HCTT works alongside rehabilitation, activity changes and follow-up care in one plan for your joint.
- Quick Recovery From the Procedure: Since HCTT is minimally invasive, recovery from the procedure is quicker than from surgery. Most patients can resume light activity within a few days to a week.
Who Asks About Human Cellular Tissue Therapy?
People with many kinds of joint injuries and conditions ask us about it.
The most common include:
- Osteoarthritis
- Torn ligaments or tendons
- Rotator cuff injuries
- Knee injuries (ACL tears, meniscus damage)
- Hip or shoulder joint degeneration
- Tennis elbow and golfer's elbow
- Chronic back pain
If you've experienced a joint injury or are dealing with chronic joint pain, a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Curt Collins, DC and our licensed medical team shows whether Human Cellular Tissue Therapy fits you and what else could help.
Human Cellular Tissue Therapy is a cutting-edge, minimally invasive option in a fast-moving field of research.
At Envista Medical, we are proud to offer Human Cellular Tissue Therapy as part of a plan built around your mobility and quality of life.
If you're interested in learning more about this treatment or would like to schedule a consultation, contact us today at (661) 587-0700. Let us help you recover and get back to living your best life.