As I’ve written in this blog, the doctors at NJ Pain Care Specialists are excited about the possibilities offered by stem cell therapy. The treatment is inspiring because it can eliminate the need for invasive reconstructive surgery and pain medications for people suffering from conditions such as degenerative disc disease, desiccated discs, spinal stenosis, facet arthrosis, sacroiliac joint syndrome, osteoarthritis of any joint, and sports or overuse injuries.
Today’s procedure
At NJPCS, we use a simple procedure to harvest stem cells from the millions that live in your body. The cells are extracted from Adipose tissue – the fat in your “love handles” – or abdomen, which is why this relatively new and effective treatment is called “Adipose Stem Cell Therapy.” The cells are processed and then injected into your problem area, where they reproduce quickly and have the ability to restore and repair injured tissue and joints.
Tomorrow’s potential
The enthusiasm over stem cell therapy is continually rising through research and use. Forbes magazine published the story of Michael Phelan – a man with multiple sclerosis who was frustrated by the limited effectiveness of standard drugs for MS, and decided to try something more radical – infusions of adult stem cells generated from his own body fat.
Here are excerpts from an interview with Mr. Phelan in Forbes about his experiences with stem cell therapy. Although stem cells are being used in multiple sclerosis disease research, there are currently no approved stem cell treatments available. Mr. Phelan traveled to Panama for his treatments.
Q: When did you first show symptoms of MS?
A: My symptoms started 7 years ago, in my late 40s. I’m 56 now.
Q: I’m assuming you began by seeking standard medical therapy. Can you tell me a bit about this and what led you gradually (or more speedily) to try a stem cell therapy?
A. I still use standard medical therapy. Unfortunately, the approved, standard drug therapy has not been effective for me. I considered the (stronger drug) risks too high.
Q. You mentioned your first treatment helped restore functionality. Could you explain in detail?
A. I had visual problems for over a year before treatment, including double vision. After my first treatment in May of 2012, my vision problems resolved and I was able to continue driving. My mental and physical energy improved dramatically. I had urinary problems, including urgency and frequency, both resolved after treatment. Plus, I had reduced spasticity, less headaches and improved balance. I went from a 10-minute treadmill, 2mph limit to a 30 minute, 2.5 mph limit.
Final thought from Mr. Phelan: We are learning very quickly how the body heals. I’m grateful to have access to treatment. But, this should be available to everyone.
We agree. In the meanwhile, we’re pleased to offer stem cell therapy for a variety of other painful and disabling conditions. Contact our offices to see how stem cell procedures currently performed at NJPCS can provide relief that can change your life now.
At the present time, Stem Cell Therapy is not covered by medical insurance.
