Therapy Stem Cells: What It Is and Who It Can Help
Stem cells therapy is changing the face of modern medicine, giving hope to those who become ill with conditions previously believed to be “untreatable”. As a leading regenerative medicine therapy, this new treatment utilises the body’s natural healing processes to help repair damaged tissues, decrease inflammation, and enhance function.
Stem cell therapies is gaining more popularity and favour as an alternative to traditional therapy for autoimmune diseases, neurological disorders, and degenerative diseases, with an increasing amount of research and clinical success. But how does stem cell therapy work, and what are the benefits of stem cell therapy & who will be benefitted? Let’s take a deep dive into the science and discoveries, as well as the current applications and the future, of this quantum leap in medical treatment.
What is Stem Cell Therapy?
Stem cell treatments use undifferentiated cells (which can develop into specific cell types) to repair or replace damaged tissue. Unlike traditional treatments, which typically offer relief from symptoms, stem cell therapies have the potential to heal, addressing the cause of disease and not just giving temporary relief.
Types of Stem cells Therapies:
- Embryonic stem cells (pluripotent, capable of becoming any cell type).
- Adult stem cells (such as those found in bone marrow, fat, and elsewhere in the body).
- Induced pluripotent stem cells (adult cells reprogrammed in a lab).
We predominantly adopt adult stem cells, which are derived from the patient’s own body (autologous therapy), to minimise the risks of rejection. This treatment is helpful for chronic swelling, joint injuries, and nerve damage.
Health Problems That can be Treated by Therapy Stem Cells
a. Autoimmune and Inflammatory Conditions
- Autoimmune diseases such as lupus, Crohn’s disease, and multiple sclerosis (MS) are characterised by hyperactive immune responses against innocuous tissues. Anti-inflammatory stem cells are thought to help modulate immune functioning, dialling down the inflammation that can accompany immune responses and contribute to the progression of disease.
b. Neurological Conditions
- In the case of damage caused by Parkinson’s or ALS patients and those previously affected by stroke, stem cells may offer the possibility for nerve tissue regeneration. Not a cure, it can help recovery of motor function and cognitive function.
c. Orthopaedics and Traumatology
- Stem cells speed the healing of joint injuries, arthritis, and even tendon damage. They promote the regeneration of cartilage and help relieve pain and improve mobility without invasive surgery.
d. Degenerative Chronic Diseases
- The function of the organs and tissues could be improved through stem cell repairing ability that would be useful for patients with various diseases such as COPD, heart disease, or diabetes-induced complications.
How Does Stem Cell Therapy Work
The process starts by extracting stem cells from the patient, typically from the bone marrow or adipose (fat) tissue. These cells are prepared and re-implanted into the region of damage, where they:
- Differentiate into body cells that are necessary for repairing tissues.
- Prompt the release of healing-accelerating growth factors.
- Modulate the immune system to reduce chronic inflammation.
Even though not a panacea, stem cell therapies does slow the progress of disease and it is beneficial when conventional medicine is no longer effective.
Benefits and Limitations of Therapy Stem Cells
Key Benefits
✔ Pain and inflammation reduced
✔ Ease of movement and use
✔ Little downtime after the procedure
✔ Custom treatment, no risk of rejection
Limitations to Consider
✖ Results are inconsistent; it works better in some patients than others.
✖ Ongoing research = Not all applications have been NICE-approved.
✖ Patients must be referred to a specialist to confirm eligibility.
What to Expect from Stem Cells Therapy Treatment
The technique is individualised to each patient:
- Consultation – Review of medical history and suitability.
- Stem Cell Harvest – Less invasive harvest from bone marrow or liposuction.
- Processing & Injection – Cells are concentrated before injection.
- Recovery & Monitoring – The majority of patients are able to return to normal activities right away, but the full effect may take weeks to be realised.
Conclusion
Stem cell therapy is a new and advanced form of medicine and can provide some relief when conventional medicine does not work effectively. However, more studies are necessary, but its ability to repair tissues, reduce pain, and improve quality of life cannot be denied.
If you or someone close to you would like the opportunity to receive the gift of health through stem cell therapy, call our experts at Chase Lodge Hospital now.
Schedule a consultation and begin the path to regenerative healing.
