Ultrasound-Guided nStride Injections

An Innovative Treatment for Osteoarthritis.

NStride: An Innovative Treatment for Osteoarthritis

NStride is a cutting-edge treatment designed for the management of osteoarthritis (OA), a degenerative joint condition characterised by the breakdown of cartilage, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. NStride has garnered attention as a promising alternative to conventional treatments such as pain relievers, corticosteroid injections, or joint replacement surgery. By leveraging the body’s natural healing mechanisms, NStride seeks to address the underlying causes of osteoarthritis rather than merely managing its symptoms.

Indications for NStride Treatment

NStride is primarily indicated for patients suffering from mild to moderate osteoarthritis of the knee. It is especially suitable for those who have not responded adequately to other conservative treatments such as physiotherapy, oral anti-inflammatory medications, or hyaluronic acid injections. While its use is primarily focused on knee OA, emerging studies suggest potential benefits for other weight-bearing joints like the hip and ankle.

Physiology of Action and Mechanism

Osteoarthritis is marked by chronic inflammation and the progressive degradation of cartilage, driven by an imbalance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators in the joint. In particular, cytokines such as interleukin-1 (IL-1) and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) play a pivotal role in promoting inflammation and cartilage destruction.

NStride works by counteracting these destructive processes. It is an autologous therapy, meaning it utilises the patient’s own blood to create a concentrated solution rich in anti-inflammatory proteins, growth factors, and platelets. A key component is the IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra), which binds to IL-1 receptors in the joint, effectively blocking the inflammatory cascade and slowing cartilage breakdown. Additionally, the growth factors in the solution help stimulate tissue repair and regeneration, offering a dual-action approach to treatment.

nStride

Procedure

The NStride procedure is minimally invasive and typically performed in an outpatient setting. It involves two primary steps:

  1. Blood Collection: A small amount of the patient’s blood (approximately 50 mL) is drawn from a vein, similar to a routine blood test.

  2. Processing: The blood is processed using a centrifuge system to isolate a concentrated serum containing high levels of anti-inflammatory proteins and growth factors. The entire preparation takes about 20-30 minutes.

  3. Injection: The prepared serum is injected directly into the affected joint under ultrasound guidance to ensure precision.

The procedure is generally well-tolerated, and most patients can return to their normal activities shortly afterwards.

Evidence of Effectiveness

Clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of NStride in reducing pain and improving joint function in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Research indicates that a single injection can provide symptom relief for up to 24-36 months.. A 2017 study published in The American Journal of Sports Medicine found that patients who received NStride experienced significant reductions in pain and improvements in quality of life compared to those treated with placebo injections.

In addition to clinical trials, real-world evidence supports NStride’s benefits. Patients often report reduced reliance on pain medications and greater ability to engage in physical activity following treatment.

What to Expect

Patients can expect a relatively quick procedure with minimal discomfort. Post-injection, some individuals may experience mild swelling or soreness at the injection site, but these symptoms usually subside within a few days. The full therapeutic effects may take several weeks to become apparent as the anti-inflammatory proteins modulate joint inflammation and promote healing.

For many, NStride offers a significant improvement in pain and function, enabling a more active lifestyle. However, as with any medical intervention, results can vary depending on the severity of osteoarthritis and individual patient factors. Regular follow-ups with the healthcare provider are recommended to monitor progress and determine whether additional treatments are needed.

In summary, NStride represents a novel, biologically based approach to treating osteoarthritis. By addressing the inflammatory processes underlying the condition and supporting cartilage health, it offers hope for long-term symptom relief and improved joint function. For suitable patients, NStride provides an effective, minimally invasive alternative to more invasive interventions.