Stem Cells Can Help Those with Spinal Injuries

Posted by americastemcellof on January 2nd, 2020

The spinal cord is an important part of any person’s anatomy.  Most spinal cord injuries fall into two types: complete or incomplete/partial.  Based on the levels of the spinal cord, the injuries are further classified into four levels. 

The four areas include cervical, lumbar, thoracic, and sacral. There are different causes of spinal cord injuries that vary from one case to another. Some of the most commonly observed causes include automobile accidents, violence, sports injury, and medical and surgical complications. Sometimes disease causes issues with the spinal cord. Some of these medical conditions include cancer osteoporosis, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, and spinal stenosis. 

Of all the treatments used today for spinal cord injuries, one of the most promising is stem cell therapies. To get stem cells, umbilical cords are collected from new mother’s right after birth.  If the baby is healthy, and the mother consents, the umbilical cord can be used to generate stem cells.  Also, the donated umbilical cords are adequately screened as per the International Blood Bank Standards. Due to this, only a small percentage of the screened umbilical cords are allowed to be processed further. 

Recent stem cell research umbilical cord at the Stem Cell Institute has shown that stem cell therapies can help those suffering from spinal cord injuries in combination with other treatments. The mesenchymal cells derived from the umbilical cords are proven to be healthier than cells from other sources. The supply amount is also higher than other sources. The cells which are selected after umbilical cord screening tests must have regeneration ability, anti-inflammatory activity and immune-modulating capacity. 

The stem cell treatment of spinal cord injuries consists of different phases. This includes a physical examination, blood tests, intrathecal, and intravenous injections, and physical therapy sessions. Stem cell therapies ensure that the patients can find a decent amount of relief with improved recovery times.          

Such therapy has benefited the patients by improving sexual functioning, bowel function and muscle control. There are many benefits to be considered.