{"type":"rich","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Transistor","provider_url":"https://transistor.fm","author_name":"Overcoming Proximal Hamstring Tendinopathy","title":"The Science of Stem Cells & Tendon Healing with Chukwuweike Gwam MD","html":"<iframe width=\"100%\" height=\"180\" frameborder=\"no\" scrolling=\"no\" seamless src=\"https://share.transistor.fm/e/4f43226d\"></iframe>","width":"100%","height":180,"duration":2725,"description":"Stem cells are one of the most talked-about frontiers in medicine—but how much of it actually applies to runners dealing with tendon pain?In this episode, I’m joined by orthopaedic surgeon and researcher Chukwuweike Gwam to break down the latest evidence on stem cells and tendon healing. We unpack what stem cells actually are, how they work in the body, and whether they live up to the hype when it comes to treating tendinopathy.We also explore the real-world limitations, risks, and costs—alongside what the future might hold for regenerative medicine in running injuries.If you’ve ever considered injections, biologics, or wondered if stem cells are “the next big thing”… this episode will bring you up to speed.About Chukwuweike Gwam MD: Orthopaedic surgeon (USA) specialising in hip & knee reconstruction  MD (Howard University), PhD in Molecular Medicine (Wake Forest), MBA  Research focus: regenerative medicine, stem cells, and translational science  Passion for improving healthcare access and bringing lab discoveries into real-world treatment Follow him on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/chukwuweike_g/Key Topics & InsightsWhat Are Stem Cells (In Simple Terms)? Think of stem cells as the body’s “repair reserve” They help regenerate tissue by:  Creating new cells  Regulating inflammation  We all have them—but: Quantity decreases with ageQuality declines significantlyWhy Do We Heal Slower As We Age?It’s not just one factor—it’s a combination: Reduced stem cell quality and number  Slower blood vessel formation  Reduced cellular signalling  Increased “senescent” (non-functioning) cells In other words: your repair system is still there… just less efficient.Stem Cells & Tendon Healing — The TheoryThe idea is simple: Harvest stem cells (fat, bone marrow, etc.)  Process them  Inject them into the injured tendon The goal: Improve collagen structure  Enhance healing response  Accelerate recovery But here’s the key point…👉 They are NOT a magic bullet—they’re an adjunct.What...","thumbnail_url":"https://img.transistorcdn.com/U9QHyZiuMTAQbAt-L5NPn321w0Wzs7Udil1bb-3dkWM/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:400/h:400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS9zaG93/LzM5ODgxLzE2ODEw/MjE0MzEtYXJ0d29y/ay5qcGc.webp","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300}