Stem Cells have been a topic of medical discussion for decades. Some important concerns include how the research has grown, the controversy around stem cells, and who can benefit from stem cell research.

What Are Stem Cells?

Stem cells are the body’s raw materials, cells that provide the source of all other cells in the body. Both in the body and a lab, stems cells divide to form new cells called daughter cells. Daughter cells then undergo one of two processes: self-renewal, which produces new stem cells, or differentiation, which produces specialized cells. Specialized cells have specific identities such as blood cells, heart muscle, or bone cells. Stem cells are the only cell in the body with the ability to generate new cell types.

Studying stem cells allows medical professionals to conduct important research. For example, studying stem cells can provide an increased understanding of how a disease works or how a disease can affect growth. Other research may allow scientists to create healthy cells to replace diseased cells or study stem cells to learn how drugs affect the cells for safety and effectiveness. 

The controversy around stem cell research is related to the use of embryonic cells. These cells are typically from early-stage embryos or embryos left over from fertility treatments.

Uses of Stem Cells

The potential of stem cells in medical treatments is ever-growing. Possible uses include developing tissue regeneration, in which stem cells are renewed to make an organ for transplants. In other cases, tissue regeneration can be used to treat burns or further skin damage by grafting the tissue. Other uses for stem cell therapy include cardiovascular disease treatment, brain disease treatments for Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, cell deficiency therapy, and blood disease treatment for diseases such as leukemia and sickle cell anemia.  

Five Things You Should Know About Stem Cells Treatment

1. Stem cell treatments can treat pains from Achilles tendonitis, tendonitis, sciatica, broken bones, and sprains and strains. The stem cells can replace damaged cells making this treatment more efficient than medication.
2. Stem cells decrease nerve damage and reduce scar tissue. Since stem cell therapy is the generation of new cells and healthy cells, the chances of nerves re-growing and tissue growth is higher. 
3. Stem cell therapy reduces pain. In comparison to a cortisone shot, which temporarily relieves pain, stem cells will work to reduce pain and work to repair any damage in an injury. Stem cell therapy is a long-term solution to pain treatment.
4. Pain relief stem cells are more effective when the cells come from bone marrow, adipose tissue, and umbilical cord. Stem cells can be gathered anywhere; however, stem cells from these areas are most effective, especially bone marrow.
5. Medication isn’t the only pain treatment. Medicine is a short-term pain relief solution, whereas stem cell therapy repairs nerves, tissue, and scar tissue.

How to Receive Stem Cells Therapy

Stem cells are gaining popularity in pain relief. Only a medical professional can determine if stem cell therapy is the correct pain relief option. 

For more information about Stem Cell Therapy and pain relief, call or visit Diablo Foot and Ankle.