Today, stem cells in Lawrence, KS, are used in the field of orthopedics, with stem cell injections applied in the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal conditions. The therapy, which is performed at facilities such as the Center for Manual Medicine, uses adult mesenchymal stem cells, or MSCs, to relieve pain. These cells are undifferentiated cells that have the potential of becoming specialized cell types.
Embryonic and Adult Cells—The Main Differences
Stem cells are usually classified as embryonic or adult cells. While embryonic cells come from human fetuses, adult cells are obtained from adults. According to reports, over 70 proven treatments use the adult cells while no current therapies use cells in the embryonic category. Scientists have difficulty controlling how the embryonic cells differentiate, which is why the adult cells are used for therapy. Center for Manual Medicine provides the best treatment in Lawrence, KS.
Where MSCs Are Harvested
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can be differentiated into various cell types, including chondrocytes (cartilage cells), osteoblasts (bone cells), and adipocytes (fat cells). MSCs used in therapy are obtained from the bone marrow in the body, usually from the back of the hip bone. They are also harvested from the adipose tissue in the abdomen. In either case, both are obtained for injection therapy and chronic pain relief.
When injection therapy is facilitated, the skin is initially numbed with novocain. Then, a very small incision is made with a specialized harvesting needle. In the case of adipose harvesting, the fluid for numbing is injected into the adipose tissue before the harvesting needle withdraws the MSCs.
Only a small amount (around 4 tablespoons) is taken. When harvesting cells from bone marrow, the needle is passed through the cortex of a bone where it gradually draws out liquid bone marrow. While needles are involved, both processes are considered painless. Because of this innovative new therapy, people can live better and with less discomfort.
