Stem Cell Treatment Might Be the Answer to Chronic Rheumatoid Arthritis

They say that stem cells are the fountain of youth for the body. Stem cells have the amazing ability to regenerate cells and heal tissues. In modern medicine, doctors and scientists have harnessed this potential to help people survive and heal from life-threatening diseases.

Now, stem cells can be used to to repair previously permanent nerve damage, healing painful chronic wounds, reverse Parkinson's disease, and much more. 

Stem Cell Research for RA 

Stem cells may hold the answer for many more diseases including rheumatoid arthritis. The StemGenex Stem Cell Research Centre, based in Del Mar, California, has found that stem cells can be used in treatments to help treat rheumatoid arthritis. Currently, there is one clinical study that is registered with the National Institutes of Health. Through this ongoing work, world-class scientists are already researching how effective stem cell therapy would be for RA. 

Right now, stem cells aren't a cure for rheumatoid arthritis, yet.  But, they play more of a role in improving the debilitating complications that are associated with this chronic disease. Usually, patients are treated with stem cells that are harvested from fat tissue from their own body. This way, the possibility of an allergic reaction is minimized. 

Stem cells aren't exactly a first-line RA treatment

Just because we have this exciting new therapy doesn't mean that it's better than the medicines that we have today. Stem Cell treatment is usually for people who haven't responded to the standard medications. 

How stem cells are "made" for this unique therapy

Stem cells are natural substances that come from a patient's own body. They are processed and administered back to the patient for the therapeutic benefits. The stem cells used in treatments for rheumatoid arthritis come adipose tissue, the patient's own fat. These cells are able to communicate and influence the immune system directly. In a disease such as RA that is based heavily on an overactive immune system and chronic inflammation, stem cells function to reduce inflammation and can help repair or regenerate damaged tissue.

Read on to learn more about stem cells and their potential for people living with rheumatoid arthritis.