The Benefits of M-Fat Derived Stem Cells for Arthritis

If you’ve been living with arthritis, you know the pain, stiffness, and swelling can really get in the way of your daily life. And while traditional treatments like medication, physical therapy, or even surgery can help, many people are now looking for less invasive, more natural options to manage their symptoms. 

That’s where M-Fat stem cell therapy comes in. At Regenerative Medicine of Iowa, PC, in West Des Moines, Iowa, board-certified physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist Michael D. Jackson, MD, FAAPMR, offers this innovative treatment using your body’s own fat tissue. It’s a promising option if you struggle with arthritis and want to avoid more aggressive interventions. 

We’ll break down what M-Fat is, how it works, and why it may be a great choice for arthritis relief. 

What is M-Fat and how does it work? 

M-Fat is short for microfragmented adipose tissue — essentially, purified fat taken from your own body (usually the abdomen or thighs) that’s processed into a form rich in stem cells and regenerative properties. Unlike synthetic treatments or donor tissue, M-Fat is completely autologous, meaning it comes from you, so your body is far less likely to reject it. 

Here’s how the process typically works 

This procedure begins with a small amount of fat gently removed through minimally invasive liposuction. It’s then processed to isolate regenerative cells, which are injected into the arthritic joint using image guidance. The stem cells go to work reducing inflammation and supporting repair, all done in-office with minimal downtime. 

Key benefits for people with arthritis 

So why choose M-Fat stem cell therapy if you’re dealing with arthritis? Because it does more than just mask symptoms, it supports healing at the cellular level. Consider the following: 

Reduces inflammation in the joint

M-Fat therapy helps calm inflammation, which can lead to noticeable relief from pain, swelling, and stiffness. 

Promotes tissue repair 

The regenerative cells in M-Fat support natural healing and may slow down the breakdown of cartilage in arthritic joints. 

Improves joint mobility and flexibility 

Many patients experience better range of motion and ease of movement after treatment, making everyday tasks more comfortable. 

Minimally invasive with little downtime 

The procedure is done in-office, requires no general anesthesia, and typically allows you to return to normal activities within a day or two. 

Provides longer-lasting relief

Unlike cortisone injections or NSAIDs, M-Fat offers more sustained improvement by addressing the root causes of arthritis, not just the symptoms. 

How it compares to other treatments 

Traditional arthritis treatments often focus on symptom control. While medications like ibuprofen, corticosteroid injections, or physical therapy can offer temporary relief, they don’t address the underlying joint damage. 

Provides longer-lasting relief

M-Fat stem cell therapy stands out because it uses your body’s natural healing power to target both inflammation and tissue regeneration. It avoids the risks of long-term medications and can be repeated or combined with other treatments. 

Who’s a good candidate for M-Fat therapy? 

Last but not least, M-Fat therapy is especially effective for people with early to moderate arthritis or those who want to avoid surgical options. It can be used in your knees, hips, shoulders, and other joints affected by osteoarthritis. You may be a good candidate if: 

• You have chronic joint pain or stiffness
• You’ve tried other conservative treatments with limited success
• You’re not ready for joint replacement surgery
• You’re in good overall health 

Always consult with Dr. Jackson to see if this approach is right for your specific condition and goals. 

In the end, living with arthritis doesn’t have to mean living in pain or jumping straight to surgery. M-Fat derived stem cell therapy offers a state-of-the-art, natural way to support your joints, reduce inflammation, and reclaim your mobility. 

If you’re ready to learn more, call us at 515-531-2664 to schedule your appointment today!