Those who suffer from Osteoarthritis have to cope with a great deal of pain and discomfort due to their joints becoming damaged. The cartilage between joints becomes hard and thin, and bones become thicker. Eventually, the bones change shape, which causes them to move position. In extreme circumstances where the cartilage completely disappears, the bones rub together, which causes damage and a change of shape in your joint, which is incredibly painful. However, Scientists at the University of Manchester have researched stem cells, with hopes to be able to treat Osteoarthritis!
Research Breakthrough
The researchers at the University of Manchester implanted the cartilage stem cells into damaged cartilage on the knee joints of rats. The following four weeks showed that the cartilage had partially repaired, and after 12 weeks, the cartilage seemed smooth and similar to normal healthy cartilage. This study showed very interesting results and so far, hasn’t shown any inkling of nasty side effects that earlier stem cell research showed, e.g. tumours. This is a big step forward for research into stem cells and the treatment of Osteoarthritis. Much more research will have to be done before human trials are set to go forward, this is to make sure the treatment will have no nasty side effects and test the procedure to see if it will help long term. Researchers have also said that at the moment, they are using adult stems cells, which are very difficult and costly to produce, so only small-scale tests are being made. Regardless of the current problems with production, this research shows a great help for those with Osteoarthritis and, hopefully, in the next few years, will prove an effective treatment for the disease.
How can Tenura help?
Although Tenura doesn’t have the ability to cure or treat impairing diseases, we can provide a selection of independent living aids designed to make small and frequent tasks much easier. Here are some Tenura disability aids that are useful to those with Arthritis:
Tenura anti-slip grip strips are just such an example. Anti-slip grip strips are made from 100% silicone. Therefore, they can be easily wrapped around almost any object you struggle to gain a comfortable grip. Tenura silicone creates a strong, grip-enhancing, and much more comfortable surface around objects, which will make it easier to pick up and use.
Tenura cutlery grips offer similar help. Cutlery grips can be applied to most knives, forks, and other utensils. Once applied, Tenura cutlery grips create a large surface area that is easy to hold and will not stress the joints in your fingers, increasing grip and comfort.
Both Tenura anti-slip grips strips and cutlery grips are non-toxic and antimicrobial, so are safe to use around the home and in areas that require a high level of hygiene, for instance, medical practices. The silicone is easy to wash (dishwasher safe).
Daily living aids provide assistance for those with arthritis and an impaired grip. Tenura has many helpful blogs on disability aids on our website under Blogs - > Arthritis Aids.
You can order disability aids direct from the Tenura website, and those who are VAT Exempt can register to buy Tenura products VAT free. Free shipping is also available on all orders over £50.