Aging is the biggest risk factor for cervical spinal stenosis. The inflammation caused by this disorder can cause pressure on the nerves in the neck, leading to pain that can be debilitating.
Regenerative medicine, also known as stem cell therapy, offers hope for managing stenosis pain as well as many other orthopedic conditions.
What Is Spinal Cervical Stenosis?
Spinal stenosis refers to the narrowing of spaces within the spinal column. The spinal column is like a tunnel housing the bundle of sensitive nerves that connect all the body parts to the brain. Since stenosis causes inflammation, it puts pressure on the spinal column and its nerves. Cervical stenosis refers to narrowing that is specifically happening in the cervical section of the spine—the first seven vertebrae starting from the skull.
Most cases of cervical stenosis are found in patients over the age of 50. The condition is typically caused by normal wear and tear on the spine. However, genetics and spinal injury may also cause stenosis. The symptoms of cervical stenosis include:
- Stiffness or pain in the neck
- Pain or numbness in one or both shoulders, arms, hands, or legs
- Tingling, burning, or “pins and needles” sensations radiating down the shoulder, arm, or leg
- Problems with balance, coordination
- Bladder or bowel incontinence can develop in severe cases
If you experience sudden incontinence or loss of sensation in your legs, seek emergency medical care.
What Is Stem Cell Therapy, and How Can It Help?
Stem cells are the building material for every bit of tissue in the human body. They make up our bones, brains, organs, skin, and more—including the spinal column.
Stem cell therapy uses the regenerating power of stem cells to help heal injured and damaged tissue. Harvested stem cells are injected into the patient’s body, and the cell’s receptors guide them to areas of injury. The stem cells initiate cell tissue regeneration.
Regenerative medicine can decrease the symptoms of cervical spinal stenosis and is also being used to manage spinal cord injury. Stem cell therapy is not FDA-approved as a cervical stenosis treatment so is still considered experimental, but studies have shown it to be a safe, minimally invasive treatment that many patients seek as an alternative to medications and surgery.
This post was written by a medical professional at Stemedix Inc. At Stemedix we provide access to Regenerative Medicine for traumatic brain injury, also known as stem cell for spinal stenosis. Regenerative medicine has the natural potential to help improve symptoms sometimes lost from the progression of many conditions.
