Stem Cell Therapy for Cartilage Injuries in Seoul at Nucellin Orthopedic Clinic

Cartilage damage can cause persistent pain, swelling, and limits in motion. At Nucellin Orthopedic Clinic in Seoul, Dr. Kim Hee-Jun provides doctor-supervised stem cell therapy designed to support cartilage healing, reduce inflammation, and improve joint function. International patients benefit from English-speaking staff, transparent pricing, and streamlined scheduling.

What Are Cartilage Injuries?

Articular cartilage cushions joints such as the knee, hip, ankle, and shoulder. Injuries range from focal chondral defects (small “potholes”) to broader degeneration that leads to pain, catching, or swelling—often after sports trauma or overuse.

How Stem Cell Therapy Helps Cartilage

Stem cell therapy harnesses your body’s regenerative potential (or carefully prepared biologics) to modulate inflammation, support matrix repair, and improve joint biomechanics when paired with structured rehabilitation. Precisely image-guided injections target the injured zone and related structures (e.g., meniscus/labrum, synovium) as needed.

Cartilage Conditions Commonly Considered

• Focal chondral or osteochondral defects (Outerbridge I–III; selective IV)
• Early degenerative changes with mechanical pain (knee, ankle, hip, shoulder)
• Post-injury cartilage wear with recurrent swelling
• Post-surgical symptom persistence (carefully selected cases)

Large unstable lesions, mechanical locking, or significant malalignment may require orthopedic surgical evaluation. Candidacy must be confirmed by a physician.

Why Choose Dr. Kim Hee-Jun and Nucellin

Dr. Kim trained at Yonsei University College of Medicine/Severance Hospital and is a member of the Korean Orthopedic Association and Korean Society for Stem Cell Therapy. At Nucellin, every procedure follows evidence-based protocols, precision imaging, and individualized rehab—delivered in an English-friendly setting with transparent pricing.

Our Treatment Process

1) Comprehensive Assessment

History, exam, weight-bearing X-rays and/or MRI to map lesion size, depth, and alignment.

2) Personalized Plan

Target selection (cartilage defect ± synovium/adjacent structures), dosing strategy, off-loading guidance, and bracing if indicated.

3) Image-Guided Procedure

Ultrasound and/or fluoroscopy to deliver cells precisely to the lesion and supportive tissues.

4) Integrated Rehabilitation

Phased program emphasizing swelling control, range of motion, neuromuscular control, and progressive load tolerance.

Expected Timeline & Results

• Week 0–2: Soreness possible; swelling control, gentle mobility, protected loading
• Week 3–6: Gradual pain reduction and function gains
• Week 8–12+: Strength/endurance improvements; activity progression per plan
• 3–6 months: Common window for peak improvement; maintenance recommended

Outcomes vary by lesion size/grade, alignment, and rehab adherence.

Benefits at a Glance

• Minimally invasive option for select cartilage injuries
• Targets inflammation and supports matrix repair
• May delay or reduce the need for surgery in appropriate cases
• Works synergistically with off-loading and structured PT

Risks & Safety

Possible temporary flare, swelling, bruising, or limited response; infection is rare. Not all patients respond. Your physician will review risks, benefits, and alternatives (microfracture, OATs, MACI/ACI, osteotomy, PRP, HA).

Aftercare Essentials

• Adhere to load restrictions and off-loading/bracing guidance
• Use R.I.C.E. early as advised
• Complete your structured rehab—critical for cartilage outcomes
• Maintain joint-protective strength, mobility, and healthy body weight

International Patient-Friendly Experience

• English-speaking staff from consultation to aftercare
• Transparent pricing and clear expectations for travelers and expats
• Efficient scheduling that fits short stays or busy calendars