What are stem cells?
Stem cells are your body’s undifferentiated cells, or blank cells. These cells have the ability to multiply and transform into specialized cells like muscle cells, bone cells, and blood cells.
Your body uses stem cells to regenerate and repair tissue. Though your body has the elements it needs to regenerate new cells and repair damaged tissue, your body may not be able to repair some of the degenerative changes that affect your spine because of lack of adequate blood supply.
What is stem cell therapy?
Stem cell therapy is a form of regenerative medicine that supports your body’s natural healing powers.
With stem cell therapy, your provider at The Spine Group injects stem cells directly into your damaged tissue, supplying it with the cells it needs for healing and repairing. The stem cells may help accelerate the healing process, reducing your pain and improving function.
Am I a candidate for stem cell therapy?
Your interventional pain management physician at The Spine Group conducts a comprehensive evaluation when you come in looking for help with your pain to determine the right care for you.
They may only recommend stem cell therapy if other less invasive treatments fail to provide significant relief from your pain condition.
What happens during stem cell therapy?
Your provider at The Spine Group customizes your stem cell therapy treatment plan to match your specific health needs and goals. They review the details of your plan during your consultation so you know what to expect.
The Spine Group performs stem cell therapy using X-ray-guided imaging to ensure accurate placement of the healing cells. During your session, you lie on the X-ray table. Your provider administers a local anesthetic to numb the location of your stem cell therapy injection.
Then, using the guided imaging, your provider inserts a needle into the damaged area, administers a contrast dye to ensure accurate placement, and then injects the stem cells.
You should be able to walk after your injection, but your provider may urge you to arrange to have someone drive you home and plan to take it easy the rest of the day.
The interventional pain management physician at The Spine Group schedules regular follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and results.
Find out more about stem cell therapy at The Spine Group by calling the office or scheduling a consultation online today.
