by admin | Mar 22, 2023 | Stem Cell Research, Mesenchymal Stem Cells, Stem Cell Therapy
Currently, it’s estimated that over 1.3 million people in the U.S., and 10 million people around the world, are living with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD is a chronic and recurrent disease characterized by inflammation of the tissues of the digestive tract[1]. Two specific diseases included under the term IBD include Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC).
While the exact cause of IBD has yet to be determined, research seems to suggest abnormal activation of the immune system, genetic susceptibility, and altered intestinal flora resulting from mucus barrier defects play some type of role in the pathogenesis of this disease. Currently, a complete IBD treatment or cure exists. Recent research has also demonstrated that adults with IBD are more likely to suffer from other chronic conditions, including diabetes, arthritis, lung cancer, and heart disease[2].
Clinical trials using stem cell therapy have demonstrated promising results for the potential treatment of IBD, including long-term remission in some patients.
In this review, Zhang et al. review the upcoming stem cell transplantation methods for clinical application and the results of ongoing clinical trials exploring the use of stem cell transplantation as a potential treatment for IBD.
Specific stem cells, known as hematopoietic stem cells (HSC), have been shown to be particularly effective when used as a therapeutic treatment. HSCs are isolated from blood, bone marrow, and cord blood that migrate directly to damaged mucosal tissues. Initially used in patients with IBD because of other hematologic indications, including leukemia and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, the use of HSC therapy (HSCT) demonstrated improvement in intestinal lesions. Further study using HSCT showed that some patients with UC and CD demonstrated sustained clinical and endoscopic improvement. The authors point out that while these limited clinical trials have demonstrated promising results, the observed risk of relapse currently prevents HSCT from being classified as an effective treatment and calls for larger samples and longer-term efficacy observations.
Another stem cell treatment currently being evaluated for the treatment of IBD is the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). When injected intravenously, MSCs demonstrate the ability to reach the injured area of the intestine, colonize mucosa to control inflammation, improve microcirculation, and repair damaged tissues. A systematic review conducted by Lalu et al. found that the use of MSCs did not show significant side effects and was a relatively safe therapeutic treatment option.
Zhang et al. conclude that the significant advance in stem cell research made over the past twenty years has made them a promising therapeutic option for the treatment of IBD. Although a limited number of clinical trials have confirmed the efficacy of specific stem cells, specifically HSC and MSCs in IBD, the authors point out that the current treatments need to be improved and further research must be conducted in order to fully understand the complexity associated with the condition.
While this review focuses primarily on the use of HSC and MSC, Zhang et al. call for continued preclinical exploration of other cell therapy methods with the goal of improving the quality of life of IBD patients.
Source: “Stem Cell-Based Therapies for Inflammatory Bowel Disease – PMC.” 31 Jul. 2022, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9368934/.
[1] “Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) – Symptoms and causes.” https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/inflammatory-bowel-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20353315.
[2] “People with IBD Have More Chronic Diseases – CDC.” https://www.cdc.gov/ibd/features/IBD-more-chronic-diseases.html.
by Stemedix | Mar 20, 2023 | Back Pain
Lower back pain is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide and can be caused by several factors. It is estimated that about 80% of adults will experience lower back pain at some point in their lives. Here we will discuss how to relieve lower back pain.
While some cases of lower back pain are mild and can be easily treated at home, others may require medical attention. If you are experiencing lower back pain, it is important to seek a medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause so an appropriate treatment plan can be developed to help relieve symptoms.
Causes of Lower Back Pain
Lower back pain can be caused by several factors, including:
- Poor Posture: Sitting or standing for long periods in the wrong posture can cause lower back pain.
- Injury: An injury to the lower back, such as a sprain or strain, can cause pain.
- Herniated Disc: A herniated disc can cause lower back pain by pressing on the nerves in the lower back.
- Arthritis: Arthritis can cause inflammation in the joints of the lower back, leading to pain.
- Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis weakens the bones in the spine, making them more prone to fractures.
Symptoms of Lower Back Pain
- Lower back pain can manifest in various ways, including:
- Dull or sharp pain in the lower back.
- Pain that radiates to the legs.
- Stiffness in the lower back.
- Numbness or tingling sensation in the legs.
- Weakness in the legs.
Relief Options for Lower Back Pain
Exercise: Exercise is an important part of managing low back pain. Regular exercise can help strengthen the muscles that support the lower back, improve flexibility and range of motion, and reduce the risk of future injuries.
Stretching: Gentle stretching can help relieve tension in the muscles and alleviate pain. Remember to listen to your body and move slowly and gently, especially if you’re experiencing pain.
Heat Therapy: Also known as thermotherapy, this therapy can help to relax muscles and increase blood flow to the affected area, which can be helpful in reducing muscle tension and stiffness.
Cold Therapy: Also known as cryotherapy, this therapy can help reduce inflammation and swelling. It can be most helpful in the first 48-72 hours after a back injury using the 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off timing method.
Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain. Be sure to speak to your healthcare provider on which options are best for you.
Massage Therapy: Massage therapy can be an effective treatment option for lower back pain, as it can help to relax tight muscles, increase circulation, and reduce inflammation. However, it’s important to note that massage therapy should be used in conjunction with other treatments and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic care involves the manual manipulation and other techniques to help alleviate pain, improve mobility, and restore function.
Regenerative Medicine for Lower Back Pain
Regenerative medicine is a rapidly growing field of medicine that focuses on inflammation and the repair and regeneration of damaged tissues. In recent years, regenerative medicine has shown promise in the treatment of lower back pain. There are several regenerative medicine techniques that are being used to treat lower back pain, including:
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: PRP therapy involves injecting a concentrated dose of platelets, growth factors, and other healing factors derived from the patient’s own blood into the damaged area of the lower back. These growth factors promote tissue repair and regeneration, reducing inflammation and pain.
Stem cell therapy: Stem cell therapy involves injecting stem cells derived from the patient’s own bone marrow or adipose tissue into the damaged area of the lower back. These stem cells have the ability to differentiate into various types of cells, including bone, cartilage, and muscle cells, which can help repair and regenerate damaged tissues.
Prolotherapy: Prolotherapy involves injecting a solution of dextrose or other irritants into the damaged area of the lower back. This solution stimulates the body’s natural healing process, promoting tissue repair and regeneration.While regenerative medicine techniques have shown promise on the effectiveness and safety for treatment of lower back pain, research will continue to help build on this foundation of studies. It is also important to note that these treatments may not be appropriate for all patients and should only be performed by trained medical professionals. If you are experiencing lower back pain, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your specific condition.
by Shoot To Thrill Media | Mar 15, 2023
Our Doctors Dr. Adam Gorberg, MD Dr. Adam Gorberg is board certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology. He began his studies at the State University of New York at Albany, graduating Summa Cum Laude with Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. He received his...
by admin | Mar 15, 2023 | Health Awareness, Osteoarthritis, Regenerative Medicine, Stem Cell Therapy
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that 25% of all adults in the United States suffer from arthritis. Arthritis can be a debilitating condition that affects many areas of the body. One of the most common locations for arthritis, however, is the hands. If you have hand arthritis, there are some things you can do to find relief.
Medications
Many medications have been developed to reduce the symptoms of arthritis and allow you to use your hands with less pain or no pain. The right medications can help reduce swelling as well as joint discomfort.
Some common arthritis medications include:
- Acetaminophen
- Corticosteroids
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- Immunosuppressive drugs
While medications cannot stop the progression of the disease, they can help manage the symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Regenerative Medicine
Regenerative medicine, also known as stem cell therapy, uses stem cells to promote your body’s natural healing process. These cells target the affected joints, reducing inflammation, pain, and aching. Stem cell therapy can also increase joint flexibility and help with the regeneration of new cartilage.
Management Strategies
Physical exercises for your hands can help you regain some mobility in your joints. You can also turn to hot and cold packs. Cold packs reduce swelling and pain, and hot packs protect against stiffness. You also need to consider regular rest periods since rest can help reduce swelling.
If you smoke, quitting can also help reduce the symptoms of arthritis, as can losing weight if you are overweight or have diabetes.
Arthritis Help Is Available
You do not have to suffer through painful hand arthritis when there are treatments available that do not rely only on surgical procedures. With management strategies like hand exercises, as well as with medication and emerging treatments like stem cell therapy, you can get the relief you need.
by Stemedix | Mar 13, 2023 | Uncategorized
Diabetes is a chronic condition that can progress in severity if left unmanaged. In many cases, untreated diabetes can lead to severe nerve pain. When you suffer from diabetic nerve pain, you may find yourself looking anywhere and everywhere for some relief. Find out how you can address your diabetic nerve pain.
What Causes Diabetic Nerve Pain?
Also known as diabetic neuropathy, diabetic nerve pain is the result of unstable blood sugar levels. When you have diabetes and allow your blood sugar to rise continuously, it can do damage to the nerves that send signals throughout your body.
The blood flow to these nerves is reduced, and they are no longer able to function properly. This leads to nerve pain, most often in the hands, feet, and legs.
Treating Diabetic Nerve Pain
If you develop diabetic neuropathy, there are several treatment options that can alleviate your pain. Learn more about each of these treatments below:
Blood Sugar Maintenance
The best way to stop nerve pain from progressing is by controlling your blood sugar. Practicing proper blood sugar maintenance and keeping your levels in a healthy range will stop the progression of neuropathy and prevent additional nerves from being damaged.
INF
INF, or intraneural facilitation, is another way to treat diabetic nerve pain. INF is an innovative treatment that does not involve any medications and is completely non-invasive. During INF treatment, blood supply is restored to the damaged nerves, alleviating pain and discomfort.
Medication
Sometimes, over-the-counter medication is the best way to relieve diabetic nerve pain. Medications like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and aspirin can all reduce the severity of your nerve pain when used for short periods. In severe cases, prescription pain medications may be needed to provide comfort.
Physical Therapy
Another way to address diabetic nerve pain is with physical therapy. Certain exercises and stretches can relieve the discomfort caused by neuropathy. These exercises include swimming, walking, and other low-impact exercises.
Regenerative Medicine
Regenerative medicine is a developing field that aims to restore or replace damaged or diseased tissues. Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high levels of blood sugar (glucose) due to the body’s inability to produce or properly use insulin.
One approach of regenerative medicine is the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to replace damaged or dysfunctional cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. These cells can be derived from a patient’s own body (such as bone marrow or adipose tissue) or from umbilical cord tissue (Wharton’s jelly). Although more research is needed to optimize these approaches, several studies have shown promising results in using stem cells to generate new insulin-producing cells in the pancreas.
Diabetic Neuropathy Treatment
Are you struggling with chronic pain and discomfort due to diabetic neuropathy? Diabetic nerve pain can occur when blood sugar levels are not managed properly. To stop the progression of your neuropathy or to prevent nerve pain in the first place, you must keep your blood sugar under control.
Establishing a reliable medical team and having doctors whom you trust can help you manage your diabetes and keep your blood sugar at healthy levels. To learn more, contact a care coordinator today at Stemedix!
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