Ultrasound-Guided
nStride Injections
NStride is an advanced therapy developed to help manage osteoarthritis (OA), a progressive joint disorder marked by cartilage deterioration, which results in pain, stiffness, and limited movement. It has emerged as a promising alternative to traditional options such as analgesics, steroid injections, or joint replacement surgery. Rather than simply alleviating symptoms, NStride aims to target the root causes of osteoarthritis by harnessing the body’s natural healing processes.
Who Can Benefit from NStride?
This treatment is mainly intended for individuals with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis, particularly those who have not achieved sufficient relief from conservative approaches like physiotherapy, oral anti-inflammatory drugs, or hyaluronic acid injections. Although it is most commonly used for knee OA, early research suggests it may also be beneficial for other load-bearing joints, including the hip and ankle.
How NStride Works
Osteoarthritis involves ongoing inflammation and gradual cartilage breakdown, driven by an imbalance between inflammatory and anti-inflammatory factors within the joint. Key contributors to this process include cytokines such as interleukin-1 (IL-1) and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), which promote inflammation and cartilage damage.
NStride addresses these mechanisms by using an autologous approach—meaning it relies on the patient’s own blood. The therapy produces a concentrated serum rich in anti-inflammatory proteins, platelets, and growth factors. A crucial component, the IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra), blocks IL-1 activity in the joint, helping to reduce inflammation and slow cartilage degradation. At the same time, growth factors support tissue repair and regeneration, providing a combined therapeutic effect.
The Procedure
NStride is a minimally invasive treatment usually carried out on an outpatient basis and involves three main steps:
Blood Draw: Around 50 mL of blood is taken from the patient, similar to a standard blood test.
Processing: The sample is placed in a centrifuge to separate and concentrate the beneficial components, a process that takes about 20–30 minutes.
Injection: The prepared serum is then injected into the affected joint, typically using ultrasound guidance for accuracy.
The procedure is generally well tolerated, and most individuals can resume normal activities soon after.
Effectiveness and Clinical Evidence
Research has shown that NStride can significantly reduce pain and improve joint function in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Studies suggest that a single injection may provide relief lasting between 24 and 36 months. For example, a 2017 study in The American Journal of Sports Medicine reported that patients receiving NStride experienced greater pain reduction and improved quality of life compared to those given placebo injections.
Real-world patient outcomes also support these findings, with many individuals reporting less dependence on pain medication and increased ability to stay physically active.
What Patients Can Expect
The treatment is quick and involves minimal discomfort. Some patients may notice mild swelling or soreness after the injection, but these effects typically resolve within a few days. The full benefits of the therapy may take several weeks to develop as inflammation decreases and healing processes are activated.
While many patients experience meaningful improvements in pain and mobility, outcomes can vary based on factors such as disease severity and individual response. Regular follow-up with a healthcare provider is recommended to track progress and assess the need for further treatment.
Conclusion
NStride represents an innovative, biologically driven strategy for managing osteoarthritis. By targeting inflammation and supporting cartilage repair, it offers the potential for lasting symptom relief and enhanced joint function. For appropriate candidates, it provides an effective and minimally invasive alternative to more aggressive treatment options.
PERSONALISED INJECTION THERAPY
Reduce your symptoms. Move pain-free. Let our team of experts guide you back to health.
Frequently Asked Questions
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NStride® APS (Autologous Protein Solution) is an innovative injectable treatment designed to help manage osteoarthritis naturally. It uses a small amount of your own blood, which is processed to isolate a highly concentrated mix of anti-inflammatory proteins and growth factors. These components are then injected directly into the painful joint to help reduce inflammation and protect cartilage tissue.
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NStride® APS may be recommended for individuals experiencing:
Mild to moderate osteoarthritis
Persistent joint pain or stiffness (knee, hip, shoulder, or ankle)
Mobility limitations impacting day-to-day activities or sports
Reduced quality of life due to chronic joint discomfort
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This treatment targets the underlying inflammation associated with osteoarthritis rather than only masking symptoms. NStride® works by blocking inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1 and TNF-α, which play a key role in cartilage breakdown. By reducing inflammation and supporting tissue repair, it can help improve joint movement and reduce pain over time.
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Yes, the injections are ultrasound guided, ensuring optimal placement within the joint for accuracy, effectiveness, and patient comfort.
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While each individual responds differently, many people begin to notice changes within 2–6 weeks, with benefits lasting from 12 months up to 24 months. Clinical research supports long-lasting improvements in pain, function, and quality of life.
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Most patients require just one treatment per joint. Depending on progress and symptoms, a follow-up injection may be recommended at a later date.
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See Table 1 below.
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Yes. Many patients choose NStride® as a non-surgical alternative to manage symptoms while postponing or avoiding joint replacement. It can be particularly valuable for individuals not ready or eligible for surgery.
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Reported benefits include:
Less joint pain and stiffness
Increased mobility and daily function
Better performance for sport and exercise
Reduced dependence on painkillers
Results typically build gradually rather than immediately.
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NStride® may not be recommended if:
You have a current infection
You are pregnant or breastfeeding
You are taking immunosuppressants or strong blood thinners
You have severe bone-on-bone arthritis (where other treatments may be more suitable)
A full clinical assessment is required to determine eligibility.
Resources
| NStride® APS | Hyaluronic Acid | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Anti-inflammatory & cartilage protection | Joint lubrication & cushioning |
| Mechanism | Regulates inflammatory proteins | Adds viscous fluid to improve movement |
| Duration | 12–24 months | 4–12 months |
| Best for | Osteoarthritis and inflammation | Joint stiffness & friction issues |
Table 1: NStride APS vs. Hyaluronic Acid