But instead of bone, Mikhael planned to use proteins from donor stem cells to promote new bone tissue growth between Roby’s fused vertebrae. A standard spinal fusion treatment involves removing the discs that are causing friction or nerve compression between the vertebrae and using bone from the pelvis or hip to fuse the vertebrae. In addition to a spinal fusion, a typical treatment for herniated cervical discs, Mikhael had proposed an innovative stem cell therapy. After learning about each surgeon’s approach, Roby chose Mark Mikhael, MD, an orthopedic spine surgeon at NorthShore University HealthSystem and Illinois Bone & Joint Institute, to oversee her treatment. Multiple orthopedic surgeons confirmed that she was experiencing nerve impingement from herniated discs in her cervical spine, as well as degenerative disc disease in her neck. For the next three weeks, she couldn’t turn her head or use her arm for even the simplest tasks, such as opening a door or carrying her purse.īut Roby’s arm wasn’t dislocated.
Then, one morning as Roby got out of bed, she heard a pop in her neck followed by intense pain that radiated down her left arm and felt as if she had dislocated her shoulder. Sometimes, it’s difficult to differentiate between that and something more serious,” Roby says. “It’s not that I didn’t take it seriously, but being an athlete, you’re in pain a lot because you’re in training. As a former gymnast and diver, she had learned to live with it. The right exercises can help you gain strength and flexibility.Sifting through claims to find the benefits Some of these are infection, blood clots, and injury to the nerve roots.Īfter any type of back surgery, your doctor may recommend physical therapy for a time. As with any surgery, there are some risks. These surgeries may not be a cure, and symptoms can come back. This keeps the vertebrae apart and the space open. In a minimally invasive procedure, spacers can be inserted between the spinous processes. You may need to stay in the hospital for a few days following spinal fusion. It may be harder to bend after this procedure, but it’s intended to decrease pain. This is done with metal hardware or bone graft from your pelvic bone.
The goal of this surgery is to stabilize, or lock two or more bones so they can’t move. Using a small incision, the surgeon removes the part of the disk causing the problem. This procedure is used when part of a disk is compressing spinal nerves. Either way, the procedure gives your spinal cord more space.įollowing the procedure, you may be able to go home the same day or the next day. There’s another version of this surgery in which multiple smaller incisions are used. Then, bone spurs, ligaments, or anything else pushing on the nerves are trimmed or removed. In this technique, your surgeon makes an incision to access your spine. If nothing else helps and your quality of life is at stake, there are a few surgical options. Chiropractic manipulation is another option, but ask your doctor if it’s a good choice for your particular condition. If exercise is aggravating your condition, see your doctor.īesides regular movement, massage therapy may help loosen up your back muscles and provide overall relaxation. If your condition is severe, you may need a back brace for extra support.
#Stem cell treatment for spinal stenosis how to#
They can also instruct you on how to do them safely. Your doctor or physical therapist can recommend exercises specifically designed to strengthen your back and abdominal muscles. Not only is it good for your physical health, but it can also improve your sense of well-being. Regular exercise can help improve flexibility and balance, enabling you to move better.
#Stem cell treatment for spinal stenosis full#
The buoyancy of the water makes it easier to move and get full range of motion. If exercise is particularly difficult, try exercising in a pool. Ideally, you should exercise for 30 minutes at least three times a week. If you haven’t exercised in awhile, start slowly, even if it’s only a few minutes a day. Try to perform some stretching exercises several times a day. You might feel as though you’re in too much pain to exercise, but movement is crucial to your overall health.
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