Does stem-cell therapy cure spinal cord injury?

Question

Hey doctor,

I am seeking information about stem-cell therapy for my 28-year-old son who suffered a spinal cord injury in a motorcycle accident 14 months ago. He is currently paralyzed from T7 level down with complete loss of motor function and partial sensory loss. His spinal surgeon says his condition is permanent but we refuse to accept that for someone so young. I have been researching stem-cell therapies with similar injuries showing improvement. They claim 60 % of patients see some functional improvement though they are careful not to promise miracles. My son has developed pressure sores, urinary tract infections, and severe depression since the injury. He was extremely athletic before the accident and the psychological impact has been devastating. His current doctors seem to focus only on management rather than recovery or improvement. The foreign clinic wants recent MRIs and complete medical records before accepting him as a patient. Are these stem-cell treatments legitimate science or just exploiting desperate families? Is there solid evidence that stem cells can help chronic spinal cord injuries? We have savings we can use but do not want to waste money on false hope. His physical therapist mentioned clinical trials in the US but the waiting lists are years long. What questions should we ask to evaluate if this treatment might help him?

Thanks.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

I know this is a tough situation for you and your son. Stem cells have shown some small promise in helping spinal injuries, but there is not enough proof that they can fully fix the injury. Some people might feel a little better, but the results vary a lot. It is not guaranteed to work. Many clinics in other countries are not carefully watched by health authorities, so the treatment might not be safe. They say 60 percent of people improve, but there is no solid proof behind that. It could be a waste of money, or worse, make things worse. Ask the clinic for real studies or evidence that their treatment works. If they cannot provide that, be careful. Make sure the doctors are experienced and licensed. Be cautious about spending so much money without being sure the treatment works. Clinical trials in the US (United States) are safer and more regulated. There are many ways to help your son feel better, like therapy, medicine, and support for things like pressure sores and depression. These treatments can help even if they do not fix the injury completely.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.