Rheumatoid arthritis can be a debilitating condition resulting in pain and reduced mobility. Medication can help, but it’s not effective for everyone and can come with serious side effects. Mesenchymal stem cell therapy for rheumatoid arthritis may be the best alternative for patients seeking symptom relief.
Darnell’s experience with mesenchymal stem cell therapy for rheumatoid arthritis promoted joint health without suppressing her immunity. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder affecting the joints. Its hallmark symptoms include joint pain, swelling, and decreased mobility.
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Women in the United States saw a slight increase in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) over 12 years. RA is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the joints, causing:
- Damaged tissues
- Pain
- Eventual damage
RA differs from osteoarthritis, which results from the wear and tear of the joints. For example, osteoarthritis of the knee is the result of the knee cartilage being worn down over time. RA occurs when the immune system attacks the lining of membranes surrounding joints.
This immune response leads to:
- Stiffness
- The thickening of the synovium
- The formation of cartilage- and bone-eroding tissue
The hallmark symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include:
- Joint pain
- Swelling
- Stiffness
- Decreased joint mobility
RA often affects joints on both sides of the body, such as the wrists, knees, and fingers. The inflammation can extend beyond the joints, impacting other organs and systems. This can lead to fatigue, fever, and weight loss.
Problems with Traditional RA Treatment
There currently isn’t a cure for RA. However, early diagnosis and treatment help manage symptoms and prevent joint damage. Along with physical therapy and lifestyle modifications, treatment approaches may include immune-suppressing medication.
Despite providing temporary relief, these approaches have enduring adverse effects. This is due to their non-specific inhibition of immune responses. This includes possible side effects such as:
- Fatigue
- Hair loss
- Vomiting
- Toxicity
Other options are available. Unfortunately, they can’t treat the existing damage to joints or extra-articular tissues.
Advancements in treatment and the introduction of targeted biological therapies have improved outcomes. Despite that, not all patients achieve a substantial clinical response.
Darnell’s Experience with Stem Cell Treatment for RA
Darnel suffered from RA symptoms for over 30 years before coming to Stem Cell Institute in Panama. In an email update following her stem cell therapy for rheumatoid arthritis, she said:
“Good morning,
I am doing quite well. At times, my hands and feet get sore and tender. This is not anywhere close to what it was before. I am thinking of coming back sometime in the future for another treatment. I think that would resolve that problem. Overall, my life has improved tremendously.
When I first came down with rheumatoid arthritis, I had a really big attack. All of my major joints were inflamed, swollen, and painful. At first, my doctors didn’t give me a diagnosis. After this initial onset, the symptoms settled down to my knees, ankles, and hands. This was the way it was for a good many years. Then my feet became involved.
My condition was debilitating. I couldn’t get out of a chair without a struggle or the aid of someone else. Standing was painful due to my feet and knees. Of course, the pain, swelling, & inflammation were always present.
Since my stem cell treatment, I can get out of a chair without even thinking; normally and pain-free. I am able to raise my arms over my head. I haven’t been able to do that for 5 years. In general, I can say that all my movements are fluid and more normal than they were before treatment.
My quality of life has improved so much.
I went for my Well Woman’s exam and told them about my GREAT improvements. My doctor was impressed and was glad I went; no bias. I still had a high Sed Rate. That was about four months ago. I feel this high rate is due to my hands and feet still having some problems.
However, after my doctor watched me move and walk around, and checked my joints for tenderness, she could see that I had improved.
I would like to say that I was greatly impressed with the doctors, staff and clinic in Panama [Stem Cell Institute]. Everything was so thought out. I had no worries because so much preparation had been done for the patients. I was impressed by such cleanliness both in the hospital and the clinic. The staff was so warm and friendly. The doctors were very patient-oriented and clear while explaining the treatments; no language barrier. Panama is such a beautiful country. We loved the history and the people. We just enjoyed our stay.
I have recommended this treatment to others many, many times. I speak to people very often about stem cell treatment and I never miss the opportunity to express how much this has changed my life. Let’s just say that I stay ready to inform people about these treatments!
I am so very thankful for the research that has been done for people. I was looking at being in a wheelchair in the future. Now, I am looking forward to yard work, showing my longhorn cattle, and vacationing with my husband. Enjoying life before was just a dream and now I can truly enjoy each day. Keep up the research. If I can be of any help I am your servant.
Thank You,
Darnell M.”
Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Stem cell therapy for rheumatoid arthritis with our Golden Cells™ promotes pain relief and contributes to joint health. Along with tissue healing, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from umbilical cord tissue can help:
- Regulate the immune system
- Suppressing pathological responses
- Preserving the body’s ability to defend against diseases.
Mesenchymal stem cell therapy for rheumatoid arthritis produces growth factors. They aid healing, making it an option for treating other autoimmune diseases.
Some studies have concluded that MSCs can migrate to inflamed tissue and produce anti-inflammatory agents. These mediators act locally without suppressing the overall immune response of your body. They also stimulate the production of T regulatory cells. These immunity cells safeguard the body against immunological self-attack.
One study showed a decrease in pro-inflammatory proteins without long-term side effects. At Stem Cell Institute, we have seen improvements in hundreds of rheumatoid arthritis patients treated with Golden Cells™. They have provided pain relief and are a promising avenue for future cell-based therapies.
Are you interested in stem cell therapy for RA? Click here to apply today!
Darnell underwent mesenchymal stem cell therapy for rheumatoid arthritis. This enhanced her joint health without compromising her overall immune system. RA manifests in hallmark symptoms such as joint pain, swelling, and reduced mobility.
Stem Cell Institute in Panama City, Panama is at the forefront of applied stem cell research. Since our creation in 2008, we have performed over 50,000 procedures, helping thousands of families across the United States and around the world embrace the opportunity for a better life. Our medical team prioritizes the safety, health, and well-being of all our patients through top-notch evaluation and care.
*This post has been updated since it was originally published in December 2012 for clarity and comprehensiveness
*Note: We no longer use stem cells derived from fat and bone marrow at Stem Cell Institute Panama. Since 2015, we have only treated patients using specially-selected human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCT-MSCs) known as Golden Cells™. Our Golden Cells™ were discovered through years of treating thousands of patients to identify the cell lines associated with highly successful cases. They are healthier and more robust than other types of stem cells to provide patients with the opportunity for optimal outcomes.
