large-scale trial: stem cell therapy knee osteoarthritis Royal North Shore Hospital will help drive one of the world’s largest clinical trials into the effectiveness of stem cell therapy for those with knee osteoarthritis.
Kolling researcher Professor David Hunter will lead the two-year study, which is currently recruiting more than 400 participants for the trial sites at RNSH and the Menzies Institute in Hobart. “We will evaluate whether stem cell injections can improve symptoms and slow the progression of the disease in people with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis,” he said. “Participants will receive three injections over a 12 month period, with researchers to assess levels of pain, physical activity and quality of life throughout the trial.” All participants will receive the same stem cell product, developed from cells from a single, young healthy person. The study follows some small trials which have indicated stem cell therapy may reduce inflammation, and help the body repair cartilage. David said there is tremendous community interest and many stem cell products available, but to date, there has been no good, rigorous evidence to suggest these products are effective in
(Left to right): Kolling researcher Professor David Hunter and Tom Buttel who has lived with osteoarthritis for most of his life
this context. “It’s really important that we have high-quality trials like this one to produce the evidence that we need around efficacy and safety,” he said. “Osteoarthritis is steadily increasing in prevalence due to our ageing population and the high numbers of people above a healthy weight. “It’s important that we can offer those managing the condition a range of treatment options, on top of the existing conservative approach of weight loss and exercise.” The trial has been welcomed by 61 year old Tom Buttel who has experienced knee osteoarthritis for most of his life after a rugby injury in his attracted some of the world’s leading osteoarthritis experts as David asks all the important questions to help people back on track after a challenging year. You can send in your questions to hello@ jointaction.info and follow
teens. “Osteoarthritis has had a big impact on my life, causing considerable pain and limiting quite a few daily tasks,” he said. “I have found, however, that by maintaining my weight and adhering to a personally- tailored exercise program, I’ve been in a much better position to manage my condition. “I’m very excited by the trial and encouraged that it may be an important step towards a safe and effective treatment for people with osteoarthritis.” Further information about the SCUlpTOR study is available at: tinyurl.com/sculptor-trial
new podcast for those living with osteoarthritis A new podcast for those living with osteoarthritis hosted by Royal North
the podcast and David on Twitter @jointactionorg and @ProfDavidHunter Joint Action is available on the Apple Store, Audible or wherever your get your podcasts.
Shore Hospital’s and Kolling Institute’s Professor David Hunter is aiming to re-engage those who may have been isolated during the pandemic. Joint Action has already
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