The use of stem cells in cell-based therapy treatments has been the focus of intense study and fascination since the 1990s. Often, this attention is focused on treating diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and heart disease. While it’s important to find cures for these diseases, stem cells are also extremely effective in treating the effects of chronic pain in parts of the body, the back, and spine especially. Researchers are finding exciting new uses for cell-based therapies in addressing back pain in patients.
ClinTech in Johnstown is part of these exciting research programs, and our orthopedic doctors are proud to offer our patients these new cell-based therapy treatments. Find out more about how these therapy options might help you manage your chronic back and spine pain.
What Stem Cells Do
Our last blog discussed what stem cells are, and how they serve as regenerative cells that can be used to repair damaged or diseased tissues in the body. Because stem cells are drawn from the patient and repurposed to address issues in their own body, there is no risk of rejection. In the case of spinal health, stem cells can be drawn from the bone marrow of the spine and repurposed to regenerate the cartilage in the discs of the spine. This has the potential to relieve disc-related back pain.
How Stem Cell Therapy Works
Stem cells are notable for their adaptability and versatility. They can divide, renew, and develop into new specialized cells. Research has shown that stem cells have anti-inflammatory properties that can be used in therapy treatments.
Stem cell therapy then is meant to replace any damaged cells in a targeted area and regenerate new cells and tissues. For the health of your spine, this could mean that stem cells are used to decrease the level of inflammation in the discs of the spine. The stem cells could help stimulate the growth and repair of discs.
What Spine Health Issues Are Addressed By Cell-Based Therapies?
The versatility of stem cells allows them to be used in a wide range of treatment options for numerous spinal health issues. Notably, clinical trials have been using stem cells to treat lower back pain and disc degeneration, and have even found use in spinal fusion surgeries.