Nerve damage can be caused by severe injuries associated with traffic accidents, medical conditions such as diabetes, or neurodegenerative ailments like multiple sclerosis.
Regardless of what causes nerve damage and pain, treatment protocols typically focus on keeping the patient comfortable via the use of oral medications and physical therapy. For more severe cases, nerve grafts or other invasive surgical interventions may also be an option.
However, recent research suggests that stem cell therapy may offer significant benefits to patients who are suffering from nerve damage.
Can Stem Cells Regenerate Damaged Nerves?
Stem cells are a special type of cell that can transform into many other types of tissue, including those found in nerves. Many clinicians believe that stem cells can be used to repair nerve damage, which will, in turn, reduce the severity of symptoms and improve a patient’s quality of life.
With that being said, the field of neurodegenerative stem cell therapy is relatively new. As such, the results experienced by each patient are unique. There are many different potential causes of nerve damage. This means that some types of nerve damage may be easier to treat than others.
What to Expect During Stem Cell Therapy for Nerve Damage
Stem cell therapy for nerve damage will start much like any other type of intervention that uses these specialized biological materials. Stem cells can be found in adipose (fat) tissue, bone marrow, and the Wharton’s Jelly of umbilical cords. However, adipose-derived stem cells are the most commonly used variety.
Once the material is collected, the medical team will separate the stem cells from other components of the adipose in a laboratory. They will then administer the stem cells to the site of the nerve damage. Over the next few weeks, the stem cells will divide and target inflammation within the body. They will work to repair damaged tissue and replace unhealthy cells.
While individual results may vary, most patients experience maximum improvement within six months of receiving treatment. Patients can receive additional treatments if recommended by trained medical professionals.
Stem cell therapy offers a safe, natural alternative to surgical intervention. It may be used to manage symptoms and further progression of multiple sclerosis, accident-related nerve damage, and other ailments that may impact the nervous system. This intervention carries minimal risk, making it particularly appealing to patients who have exhausted other treatment options.
This post was written by a medical professional at Stemedix Inc. At Stemedix we provide access to Regenerative Medicine for multiple sclerosis, also known as stem cell for multiple sclerosis. Regenerative medicine has the natural potential to help improve symptoms sometimes lost from the progression of many conditions.