Nerve injuries can result from chronic diseases like diabetes, trauma & physical injury, musculoskeletal issues, bulging or herniated discs, alcohol use, vitamin deficiencies, surgery, medications, toxins, chemotherapy in particular, infections, autoimmune conditions, chronic kidney or liver disease, hypothyroidism, and more. There are over 100 different contributing factors to developing neuropathy or nerve damage, leading to pain, numbness, various bothersome sensations, weakness, or loss of function. The common denominator for all the causes has to do with reduced capillary blood supply, which limits the nerve’s ability to repair itself naturally. This has led many patients to explore regenerative options like stem cell therapy and various electro-medical approaches.
This video will focus on one question: Can stem cells improve nerve regeneration after they have been damaged?
How Nerve Injuries Affect the Body
Peripheral and central nerves are responsible for transmitting signals between the brain, spinal cord, and the rest of the body. When these nerves are damaged, communication is disrupted, which can lead to:
- Loss of sensation
- Muscle weakness or paralysis
- Chronic pain or tingling
- Slower recovery from injury
Traditional treatments often focus on symptom management rather than repairing the damaged nerves. Various medications like Gabapentin are typically used, although they either don’t work very well or cause unwanted side effects.
How Stem Cell Therapy May Help
Stem cell therapy uses specialized cells and their products, commonly mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which have regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties. Exosomes are produced by stem cells and have related beneficial effects that stimulate the regeneration process.
Stem cells and exosomes may assist nerve repair by:
- Reducing inflammation around the injury site
- Promoting the survival of damaged nerve cells
- Supporting the growth of new nerve fibers (axons)
- Enhancing the healing environment through growth factor release
Rather than instantly restoring function, stem cells encourage the body’s natural regenerative processes.
Potential Benefits for Nerve Regeneration
Patients receiving stem cell therapy may experience:
- Improved sensation and motor function
- Reduced neuropathic pain
- Faster recovery from peripheral nerve injuries
- Support for chronic nerve conditions
Benefits are often gradual and may continue improving over several weeks to months. The goal is to restore microcirculation to the nerves and support their regeneration. It is not a quick, overnight process as the body takes time to repair damage.
Who May Benefit the Most
Stem cell therapy may be more effective for:
- Mild to moderate nerve injuries
- Peripheral nerve damage rather than severe spinal cord injuries
- Patients seeking non-surgical regenerative options
Severe nerve injuries may still require surgical intervention alongside regenerative therapies.
Our Approach
We use several different things to help your body repair & regenerate damaged nerves. We include proper nutritional support, photobiomodulation, aka red and near infrared light therapy, specialized electric frequencies, vibration, peptides, and oxygen therapy (EWOT) when possible. We call this comprehensive approach to restoring nerve health The Wolverine Protocol.
Limitations and Expectations
Stem cell therapy is not a guaranteed cure; nothing is. Results depend on the extent of nerve damage, patient age, overall health, and treatment protocols. Stem cells support nerve healing, but complete recovery may not always be possible, especially in severe or chronic cases. Most people, about 90% do experience significant improvement if not outright alleviation of the problem.
Final Thoughts
Stem cell therapy shows promise as a supportive approach for nerve regeneration after injury. By reducing inflammation and encouraging repair, it may help restore function and reduce pain for selected patients. Ongoing research continues to refine its applications and effectiveness in nerve healing.