The study of stem cells remains one of science’s most promising frontiers. For more than 70 years, research has continued to shed light on the value and potential of stem cell treatments. From a basic understanding of the stem cell’s role in early cell differentiation to today’s more nuanced exploration of their regenerative effects, researchers and clinicians are harnessing the power of stem cells in ways that are improving the lives of patients with an increasing variety of problems and conditions. No longer are stem cell transplants (to treat cancer) the only common stem cell treatments; today, stem cells are also being utilized to treat everything from genetic and autoimmune issues to degenerative conditions, injuries and more. We will explore two of the most common stem cell treatments. Of particular interest is the way in which stem cells can potentially ameliorate the effects of daily living within the musculoskeletal system. Too often the wear and tear of life causes our bodies to experience a weakening over time that impedes our activities and increases our pain. Studies and clinical practice, however, are proving that stem cell therapy can stimulate the body’s own healing processes, neutralize inflammation, regenerate tissue and accelerate healing.
(In a nutshell, stem cell therapy for orthopedic issues refers to the harvesting of adult stem cells from a patient’s own body. These stem cells are mixed with growth factors and other biologics and then injected back into the patient at the point of tissue damage/pain to facilitate repair and symptom relief.)
Here are the two most common stem cell treatments we use at ThriveMD:
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Stem Cell Therapy for Joint and Soft Tissue Repair
Joints are the connections between our bones. As we age, our joints get repeatedly exposed to possible damage and overuse. Indeed, natural degenerative processes affect all of us the longer we live, and it’s likely that the majority of us will at some point in our lives experience joint pain. Traditional treatments for joint pain included rest, medication, physical therapy and/or surgery, with a significant amount of time needed for any one to render positive effect — namely, pain relief. Today, though, the most common stem cell treatments are cutting down the time needed for execution of the procedure itself, as well as the time needed for recovery.
Stem Cell Therapy for Low Back Pain and Herniated Discs
Another widespread problem for patients is back pain. In fact, lower back pain is the leading cause of disability worldwide. Like joint pain, back pain can severely reduce quality of life, making it paramount that patients experiencing issues receive timely and effective treatment. In patients without spinal instability, stem cells have been shown to improve pain relief by decreasing inflammation, repairing disc cartilage, improving disc hydration and increasing disc height. When compared to invasive, time-consuming surgery, the most common stem cell treatments are less risky and offers faster pain relief. Moreover, it is the only option with the potential to actually repair damages not simply mask their effect.
Will Stem Cell Therapy Work for YOU?
There’s little doubt that both joint and back pain have the potential to be improved by stem cell therapy. To find out if one of the most common stem cell treatments mentioned above might work for you, please contact our office for a consultation. Our medical director and team of caregivers carefully review all patient histories so that only the treatments with the best chances for success are recommended.