Treating traumatic spinal cord injuries and chronic back pain-causing conditions like degenerative disc disease can prove quite challenging. Traditional interventions involve invasive surgical procedures, extended physical therapy programs, and potentially harmful medications. However, there were few alternatives until very recently.
Stem cell therapy has been the focus of dozens of studies over the last two decades. During this research, stem cell therapy has demonstrated the potential to treat conditions such as neurodegenerative diseases, autoimmune disorders, and chronic ailments, including back pain. Stem cell therapy also shows significant promise for treating spinal cord injuries.
Can Stem Cells Regenerate Spine Tissues?
Some researchers believe that stem cell therapy can regenerate spinal tissues. If this proves to be the case, then stem cell therapy will be the non-surgical alternative for treating spinal cord injuries, neck pain, and back pain.
However, more research is needed to support these claims. With that said, initial results have been very promising. Patients suffering from chronic back pain have experienced less pain, more mobility, and improved symptoms in some cases. While results may vary from patient to patient, stem cell therapy may be a viable option for those that want to avoid surgical intervention.
How Do Stem Cells Work?
Stem cells are unique in that they are undifferentiated. This means that they have the power to divide and transform into different specialized cells, including those that make up certain spinal tissues. Stem cells also have strong anti-inflammatory properties, which may explain why some patients have experienced reduced pain and swelling following this treatment.
The Treatment Process
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can come from different sources. Some most utilized today are from bone marrow aspirate, adipose tissue, or the Wharton’s Jelly of umbilical cords.
Stem cells are administered to the patient in the most targeted areas of need. In the case of a patient with an injured spinal region or joint, they will be administered locally to that specific area. They can also be administered systemically using an IV.
Over the next several weeks to months, the stem cells may facilitate healing and reduce symptoms. Some patients experience improvements for up to a year or more following treatment. A patient may receive a single treatment or multiple sessions, depending on the care provider’s recommendations. This alternative option may be worth exploring for individuals suffering from chronic back pain and other orthopedic conditions.
This post was written by a medical professional at Stemedix Inc. At Stemedix we provide access to Regenerative Medicine for traumatic brain injury, also known as stem cell for spinal stenosis. Regenerative medicine has the natural potential to help improve symptoms sometimes lost from the progression of many conditions.
