What Are Stem Cells?
Before exploring what stem cell injections are, it’s crucial to understand why anyone would inject stem cells in the first place. Stem cells are the blank slate of cells. While you have millions of cells already formed, such as brain, blood, and muscle tissue cells, stem cells can be turned into any kind of cell you need. Additionally, scientists have discovered that when stem cells are manipulated into the needed cell type, they can generate more healthy cells. For example, if you influence stem cells to be healthy red blood cells to help with a blood disease, those would produce more healthy blood cells. Even more promising for the health and wellness of future generations is that stem cell research has only begun to discover what’s possible. With multiple applications, different stem cell therapies have emerged at the forefront of medical treatments, including stem cell injections.What Are Stem Cell Injection Benefits?
Stem cell injections are a targeted therapy for localized repair and healing for people who have experienced injuries or certain illnesses. Stem cell injection benefits include:- Regenerating damaged tissues such as cartilage, muscle, and connective tissues
- Repairing bone damage
- Optimized metabolism, which affects other areas of health
- Increased neurological functioning for Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s patients
- Various Leukemias
- Neuroblastoma
- Epstein Barr
- Various immune disorders, e.g. Congenital Neutropenia
- Metabolic disorders, e.g. Krabbe Disease
- Blood Disorders
- Arthritis
What Are Stem Cell Injection Risks?
Whether stem cell injections are an appropriate treatment varies from individual to individual. Consulting with a trusted medical professional is crucial when exploring whether stem cell therapy is suitable for you. Selecting a fully-vetted professional for treatment delivery is vital for minimizing any associated risks of stem cell injections. Other risks include:- Injection site infection
- Infection of stem cells (making it crucial that you receive therapy from a reputable provider)
- Adverse reactions for Rheumatoid Arthritis patients
Where Do Stem Cells Come From?
Researchers are uncovering new ways to source stem cells, but there are currently three common sources.- Embryonic Stem Cells are sourced from embryos that are approximately 3 to 5 days old and have not been implanted. The embryos are sourced from In Vitro patient donors. These stem cells tend to be a source of controversy, but are the most potent thanks to their capability to convert into highly specialized cells.
- Mesenchymal Stem Cells are sourced from adult tissues for new bone, fat, and cartilage cells, making them a valuable resource for injury healing.
- Perinatal Stem Cells are found in amniotic fluid and in umbilical cord blood, cord tissue and placental tissue, making cord blood banking an invaluable resource for any family’s new bundle of joy.
