Promising Role Of Stem Cells For Treating Peripheral Neuropathy

What is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy, or simply neuropathy, is dysfunctional or damaged nerves in the peripheral nervous system comprising the brain and the spinal cord. The nerve damage causes pain, swelling, numbness, and weakness in the muscles and different body parts. The symptoms of peripheral neuropathy depend on the affected nerves and can include:

• Abnormal tingling sensation in hands and feet
•  Limited muscle movements and function
•  Difficulty walking and balancing
•  Loss of muscle and bone
• Changes in the texture of skin, hair, and nails
•  Paralysis
• Foot ulcers

The symptoms of neuropathy usually begin in the hands or the feet and then gradually start affecting other body parts. If left untreated, it can get worse with intense pain followed by complete numbness or loss of sensation.

Causes and Types of Neuropathy

There are more than hundreds of types of neuropathy conditions, each depending on its cause and having its own set of symptoms. The most common cause of this severe condition is diabetes, and hence, it is also termed diabetic neuropathy. Its symptoms may range from mild to severe based on the areas in the body whose nerves are damaged. Diabetic neuropathy may cause nerve damage throughout the body due to consistently high glucose levels (sugar) in the bloodstream.

However, in several cases, chemotherapy, genetic factors, inflammation or infections, poor nutrition, and kidney failures have been the triggers for peripheral neuropathy leading to health deterioration. As per the latest reports of The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease, almost 60-70% of the Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes patients suffer from diabetic neuropathy.

Other risk factors that contribute to neuropathy are excessive alcohol intake, bone marrow disorders, autoimmune diseases, liver problems, hypothyroidism, and vitamin deficiency.

The five types of neuropathy based on the types of nerve damage are –

• Peripheral neuropathy – Nerve damage in the brain and spinal cord
• Cranial neuropathy – Nerves in the brainstem are affected, resulting in damage to the optic nerve or nerve in the ear or face.
• Autonomic neuropathy – Nerve damage in the internal organs, such as the digestive, reproductive, or urinary systems.
• Focal neuropathy – Damage to a single nerve, such as hand, leg, head, or torso.
• Proximal neuropathy – It is a rare type of nerve damage that affects the lower portion of the body, such as the hips, thighs, and legs.

Why Choose Stem Cell Therapy for Peripheral and Diabetic Neuropathy?

Stem cell therapy is now at the forefront of advanced regenerative medicine treatment for neuropathy characterized by peripheral nerve damage. Mesenchymal stem cells collected from umbilical cord tissue (Wharton’s Jelly) are injected into the bloodstream via intravenous infusion to release neuroprotective agents to recover from the nerve damage. Stem cells have the exceptional power to regenerate nerve cells, potentially rebuilding the damaged nerves and restoring their functions.

Stem cell therapy for peripheral and diabetic neuropathy offers a glimmer of hope to patients, not just with symptom relief but promoting nerve repair and regeneration. It addresses the underlying cause of neuropathy and significantly alleviates the symptoms of motor neuropathy, such as a reduction in pain, weakness, and numbness.

Nerve regeneration using umbilical cord tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells involves several stages. These pluripotent cells can differentiate into any cell type and release growth factors necessary for nerve regeneration and repair.

• Cellular response – Following nerve injury and initial degeneration, when the stem cells are administered, they activate the surrounding immune cells and supporting (Schwann) cells to release cytokines and growth factors to accelerate the healing response and promote nerve regeneration.
• Regrow Axons – Stem cells promote the growth of new axons at the end of damaged nerves, which play a crucial role in transmitting signals and regulating motor function.
• Remyelination – MSCs also support the regeneration of nerve cells in the protective covering or myelin sheath. This process is called remyelination and is necessary for restoring the nerves’ function in sending signals efficiently.
• Functional Recovery – As nerve regeneration and efficient signal transmission between nerve cells are established again, the functions of nerves in the affected areas improve, and patients experience a significant reduction in symptoms.

Role of Stem Cells In Repairing Nerve Damage

Stem cells repair damaged nerves caused by diabetic and peripheral neuropathy and aid in nerve regeneration. They stimulate the growth of new blood vessels through angiogenesis and enhance the restoration of the axons in the protective myelin sheath. These specialized cells possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, which reduce inflammation and regulate the immune system.

The therapeutic effects and diverse mechanisms of stem cells result in a smooth healing process of nerve injuries in the peripheral nervous system. Although stem cell therapy has the fantastic potential to regenerate damaged nerves and restore their function, success largely depends on the location of the nerve damage, the extent of the damage, the type of nerve injury, and the patient’s overall health.

Medical Studies On Effectiveness of Stem Cells In Treating Neuropathy

Recent studies on stem cell therapy for addressing diabetic and peripheral neuropathy show promising results in encouraging neuronal survival, reducing inflammation, and promoting axonal growth. MSCs are a powerhouse of cytokines, growth factors, and RNA, which support a healthy cellular environment and encourage nerve repair and regeneration by activating the healing response of the surrounding cells. Several studies and medical research indicate that stem cell-based treatments are effective in treating diabetic neuropathy and demyelinating polyneuropathy by eliminating their chronic inflammatory effects.

Reports on a small study of 10 female patients with diabetic neuropathy reveal that 50% of them experienced a significant reduction in pain and relief from other symptoms after six months. Moreover, their dependence on anti-neuropathic medicines was reduced, and there was a noticeable improvement in nerve function.

Success Rates of Stem Cell Treatment for Neuropathy

Multiple studies and clinical trials on stem cell therapy for neuropathy suggest that almost 80% of patients benefit from it, which has long-lasting results. The success rates of stem cell-based treatment depend on various factors, such as the type of neuropathy, the types of stem cells used, the number of stem cell doses, the severity of the condition, the patient’s age, and overall health.

Although several studies indicate positive clinical outcomes, more research is needed to determine a specific neuropathy type’s proper stem cell treatment approach to ensure its long-term efficacy and success rates.

Best Country for Stem Cell Therapy

Several countries worldwide offer high-quality stem cell treatments, such as Thailand, Germany, Singapore, South Korea, and Mexico. The cost of treatment in every country differs significantly because of the location, infrastructure, travel expenses, treatment facilities, and many other aspects.

Among all the countries mentioned above, Mexico is a leading destination for world-class stem cell therapy at affordable rates. The advanced healthcare infrastructure, cutting-edge technologies, and presence of qualified healthcare professionals make Mexico an ideal country for medical tourism.

While considering stem cell therapy in Mexico, Life Altering Stem Cell Therapy Institute is a top-rated clinic specializing in personalized cell therapies for more than twenty health conditions, from autoimmune conditions to age-related disorders, Alzheimer’s disease to Parkinson’s disease, and cardiovascular issues. Consult our healthcare professional for the best treatment advice based on your condition and medical history.