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.
Procedure
The NStride procedure is minimally invasive and typically performed in an outpatient setting. It involves two primary steps:
Blood Collection: A small amount of the patient’s blood (approximately 50 mL) is drawn from a vein, similar to a routine blood test.
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.
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.
Conclusion
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.
Reduce your symptoms. Move pain-free. Let our team of experts guide you back to health.
PERSONALISED INJECTION THERAPY
Frequently Asked Questions
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NStride® APS (Autologous Protein Solution) is a regenerative injection therapy that uses your own blood to help reduce joint inflammation and improve mobility. After a small blood draw, the sample is processed to isolate high levels of anti-inflammatory proteins and protective growth factors, which are then injected into the affected joint to help calm inflammation and support cartilage health.
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NStride® may be beneficial for individuals experiencing:
Mild to moderate osteoarthritis
Pain, swelling, or stiffness in major joints (knees, hips, shoulders, ankles)
Difficulty walking, exercising, or carrying out daily tasks
Chronic joint pain that hasn’t responded well to physiotherapy or medication
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NStride® works by targeting the inflammatory processes that drive osteoarthritis. It reduces levels of proteins such as IL-1 and TNF-α within the joint, which are responsible for cartilage breakdown and pain. By lowering inflammation and protecting the joint environment, many patients experience smoother movement, reduced discomfort, and better function.
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Yes, ultrasound imaging is used to guide the injection, ensuring accurate placement and effective treatment delivery into the joint space.
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Improvement usually develops gradually over 2–6 weeks, and depending on severity and lifestyle, results are often maintained for 12–24 months. Research suggests many patients maintain significantly reduced pain for a year or longer.
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Most people receive a single NStride® injection per joint. In some cases, a second injection may be recommended later based on individual progress and goals.
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Many patients consider NStride® as a way to delay or avoid surgery, particularly when pain affects quality of life, but they are not yet ready for a knee or hip replacement.
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After treatment, individuals often describe:
Less pain and swelling
Greater range of movement
Increased ability to exercise or walk longer distances
Reduced need for medication or bracing
Results develop progressively, rather than instantly.
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This treatment may not be appropriate for patients who:
Have an active infection
Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Are using certain blood-thinning or immune-suppressing medication
Have severe, bone-on-bone arthritis (where alternatives may be more suitable)
A full clinical consultation will help determine suitability.