In recent years, a lot has been written about stem cell treatment. Early studies and research have shown amazing promise for specific conditions. So, does stem cell treatment work for neuropathy? Before we discuss that, let’s understand neuropathy first.
What exactly is neuropathy?
Beyond the central nervous system, we also have peripheral nervous system in our body. When nerves outside brain, spinal cord get damaged, it is called neuropathy. There are varied causal factors of neuropathy, right from diabetes to alcohol abuse. Neuropathy usually gets worse with time and can impact a person’s quality of life. Stem cell treatment for neuropathy has shown some promise, although more in-depth research is needed.
Knowing about stem cells
For the unversed, stem cells have the ability to become other cells in the body. For stem cell therapy, stem cells are harvested from patient’s own body and injected at the site of pain, which may trigger a healing response as stem cells can become neurons and stimulate the body to produce more neurons. Mesenchymal stem cells are found in the belly and fatty issues, and bone marrow.
Can stem cell treatment treat neuropathy?
A small number of studies has shown amazing promise with stem cells for treatment of neuropathy, but more research is needed. If your doctor believes that a shot of stem cells can ease your current nerve pain or offer relief from the symptoms, they may recommend the same. Keep in mind that relative new nerve damage is much easier to treat and heals sooner, while chronic nerve damage, or pain that has been consistent for a longer period of time, can be hard to treat. To add to that, how a patient’s body reacts to stem cell treatment or PRP can be unique, so the results are not always conclusive. In other words, stem cell therapy may work for some, but may not work for others.
Final word
If you are dealing with nerve pain that has affected your routine and way of life, we strongly recommend that you check for an appointment at a pain clinic that also offer PRP and stem cell therapy. Check with the experts and find more on whether stem cells can help your case. A series of tests may be required, and you may have to come back for another shot of stem cells. Talk to your doctor about costs, expected results, and take a decision based on your current treatment plan.
