Regenerative Properties of Stem Cells
Stem cells are the foundation for every single organ and inch of tissue in your body – from the surface of your skin to the marrow in your bones. Contrary to popular belief that dictates stem cells can only be found in embryonic cells, there are many different types of stem cells that are found in different places in the body. Embryonic stem cells exist only at the earliest stages of development. Adult stem cells are formed during fetal development, yet remain in our bodies – in tissues, bone marrow, and more – throughout our lives. There are different types of stem cells found in all tissues; they are in muscle, the brain, tendons, marrow and more.
All stem cells are able to make copies of themselves and can differentiate (develop into more specialized cells). Think of stem cells as a blank slate which can be written over and adapted to fit a particular situation. Some stem cells are better than others at differentiation, but this is the only type of cell that has a chance at regenerating tissue. This makes stem cells extremely promising for wound and organ healing, and many other modern medical utilizations.
There is an explosion of interest in stem cells with massive amounts of research being done globally. Research in this country is hampered by the insurance industry of course; they do not wish to pay for this potentially amazing therapy. There is so much promise and at this time there are many safe and effective applications of stem cells in clinical practice.
Different Types Of Stem Cells
Multipotent stem cells can develop into many different types of cells – but not all types. Pluripotent stem cells can grow into any type of cell that occurs in the human body. Embryonic stem cells are pluripotent, and adult stem cells – which are most commonly harvested for medical procedures, and the only type we use at Warner Orthopedics, are multipotent. Not only do we feel that it is not ethical to use pluripotent cells, we also feel they are dangerous. These types of cells have the chance to form tumors and become overactive in the body.
Adult stem cells are also commonly known as tissue-specific or somatic stem cells. They are more specialized than embryonic stem cells, which makes them less applicable to certain procedures. For example, certain stem cells found in bone marrow can form red and white blood cells and platelets. However, they cannot usually change into brain, liver, or lung cells. However, in certain circumstances bone marrow cells can support nerve cells and nerve function. Even though these cells are more limited than embryonic stem cells, they still have great potential within the medical community.
The ability for injected stem cells to transform damaged and worn tissues makes it a game-changer for regenerative medicine.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells In Therapeutic Settings – Bone marrow-derived
Mesenchymal stem cells are one type of stem cell found in bone marrow. They create the different specialized cells found in skeletal tissue. They can specialize (or differentiate) into bone cells, fat cells, connective tissue and cartilage cells – providing a variety of promising clinical applications.
Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell treatment is performed in a sterile setting and may be an outpatient procedure. After the physician harvests bone marrow from the hip, leg, or heel, it is prepared for injection with specialized equipment.
A medical professional will then inject the specialized stem cells into the site of injury. Then, the cells begin healing and repairing the damaged tissue. The actual procedure can take from 30 minutes up to four hours, and while recovery times vary depending on the condition, most patients can return to their daily activities the day after the procedure. Total healing time will last up to 6 months with most people noticing improvement within the first month.
What Can Stem Cell Therapy Treat?
Stem cell therapy can be used to treat problems from a variety of illnesses and disorders, including the following:
- Spinal Cord Injuries (experimental)
- Diabetes
- Heart Disease
- Joint Injuries or degeneration: Knee, Ankles, Hand, Back, Hip, Shoulder, etc.
- Immune Disorders
- Metabolic Disorders
- Rotator Cuff Tears and other connective tissue disorders
- Skin degeneration and aging
Stem Cell Therapy At Warner Orthopedics & Wellness:
At Warner Orthopedics & Wellness, we provide stem cell therapy for orthopedic, rheumatic and other painful conditions affecting most joints and tendons. We also provide stem cells for skin regenerative purposes.
If you have experienced an injury to tendons and ligaments in your hand, wrist, hip, foot, shoulder or any other joint, you may be a good candidate for stem cell therapy. Our specialist can also treat muscular damage, including tears, fibrosis, trigger points and other chronic issues. Traditional options for patients include treatment through injection with bone marrow concentrate (MSC, stem cells).
Warner Orthopedic & Wellness’s unique treatment method is the tool of choice for many conditions including arthritis, sprains, tears and more, and can help you quickly overcome your injury. Contact us today for more information about choosing the most appropriate Stem Cell Therapy treatment for you.
