Stem Cells

What are stem cells?

Stem cells are unique. They can develop into many different types of cells, such as nerve, muscle, or blood cells, dividing and renewing themselves over time. This remarkable capability makes them valuable for repairing or replacing damaged or inflamed tissues.

When placed in a specific environment, stem cells can transform to meet a particular physical need. For example, if you have a damaged tendon, Dr. Zaidi can place stem cells in the area, and they may develop into healthy tendon cells.

Adult stem cells are most commonly used because they can come from your own body. They can be harvested from bone marrow or adipose (fat) tissue and then processed to concentrate their healing properties before being delivered to areas of your body that need help recovering.

This also helps you avoid allergic reactions if you’ve struggled with your body’s response to medications in the past.

What can stem cells treat?

Stem cell injections promote healing and reduce inflammation, offering a non-surgical option for managing chronic pain. Dr. Zaidi might include them when addressing damage to your:

• Tendons
• Ligaments
• Muscles
• Cartilage

Whether your pain is due to overuse, a chronic condition, or one-time trauma, stem cells may also:

• Facilitate better healing
• Encourage the growth of new blood vessels
• Promote cell growth
• Decrease inflammation
• Slow tissue degeneration
• Decrease pain
• Reverse osteoporosis and bone loss
• Improve osteoarthritis

Dr. Zaidi may recommend combining stem cell treatments with other recovery-boosting therapies, like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, to boost your potential benefits.

What happens during stem cell treatment?

Before beginning treatment, Dr. Zaidi discusses your medical history and current symptoms. He determines whether you’re a good candidate and goes over the results you can realistically expect

Dr. Zaidi may harvest stem cells from bone marrow or adipose tissue and can apply them via targeted injection, intravenous (IV) infusion, or surgical implantation.

Stem cell therapies have a lot of potential for regenerative medicine, and there’s no shortage of possible applications. Talking to qualified healthcare providers like Dr. Zaidi ensures the stem cell treatments you receive are appropriate, safe, and likely to benefit your condition.

To learn more about stem cell treatments and how they can help you, call A&U Family Medicine today or schedule a consultation online.