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Knee Osteoarthritis Study Participants Needed
Posted on 03-07-2026 in Knee Osteoarthritis, Clinical Study, Knee & Knee Pain by Dr. Joshua Hackel

Posted on 03-07-2026 in Knee Osteoarthritis, Clinical Study, Knee & Knee Pain by Dr. Joshua Hackel
Knee osteoarthritis is typically the result of progressive wear and tear on the joint as we age and is one of the leading causes of disability. It can be hard when the pain, swelling, and stiffness from knee osteoarthritis prevent you from enjoying your life. Patients suffering from knee OA often have difficulty performing daily activities such as sleeping, walking, using stairs, bending down, caring for their family, working, and doing their favorite activities.
Have You Tried Conservative Options with Limited Relief and Are Not Ready for Major Surgery?
Surgery is not the first step. Many patients try conservative options first (ex., physical therapy, corticosteroids, other injections, activity modification). Over time, these interventions may provide limited relief. There are not many effective treatment options available to patients who have tried conservative options but are ready for major surgery.
What is the purpose of the study, and how does it work?
We are searching for new ways to help treat knee osteoarthritis (OA). The ARISE II study will examine how well a naturally, minimally invasive investigational therapy using your own MicroFat helps treat pain and function for patients with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis.
Patients who qualify for the study and choose to participate will be required to sign an informed consent form and receive all study-related care and investigational devices from a trained physician and team at no cost. Participants may be compensated for travel and expenses for each completed study visit.
To learn more about the study, download the ARISE II Clinical Trial Overview for additional details and frequently asked questions. Interested study participants should contact Dr. Josh Hackel at 850-916-8783 or visit his web page to learn more about his experience and qualifications.

If you’ve ever sprained your ankle and thought, “this isn’t a big deal…it’s a minor injury,” you’re not alone. Ankle sprains are among the most common musculoskeletal injuries, especially in active adults and athletes. However, for some patients, what begins as a simple sprain becomes a frustrating cycle in which the ankle feels weak, unstable, and prone to “rolling” again and again. Understanding why this happens is the first step toward breaking the cycle and restoring long-term stability.

February is American Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about cardiovascular health and its far-reaching effects. While most people recognize the importance of heart health for longevity and disease prevention, fewer realize its critical role in musculoskeletal well-being. At North Florida Bone & Joint Specialists, we emphasize a comprehensive approach to orthopaedic care, recognizing that a strong heart supports strong bones and joints.

North Florida Bone & Joint Specialists is honored to share the Hands of Hope Medical Mission feature in the newly released December 2025/January 2026 issue of Emerald Coast Magazine. As part of the Medical Profiles section of this edition, the article highlights how two of our own, Dr. Steven Kronlage and Dr. Chris O'Grady, volunteer their time and talents to bring compassionate orthopaedic care to communities with limited access to medical services.