Stem Cell Therapy for Disc Damage in Raleigh, NC

With a conservative approach to spine issues, Dr. Mathur prefers to use nonsurgical treatments whenever possible. In many cases, stem cell therapy can provide long-term relief from back or neck pain without surgery.

Repair Damaged Discs With Noninvasive Stem Cell Therapy

Spinal discs help support the vertebrae and act as shock absorbers. However, time and injury often degrade the discs, causing back or neck pain. This degenerative disc disease usually doesn’t respond to surgery, forcing many patients to live with pain symptoms. Of these patients, 80-90% find success with stem cell therapy.

Find your success today with Dr. Mathur. Contact our office by calling 919-297-0000 or by requesting your appointment with us online.

How Does Stem Cell Therapy Work?

Stem cell therapy, or Bone Marrow Concentrate (BMC) therapy, works using the unique healing properties of adult stem cells. These stem cells are harvested naturally and comfortably from the bone marrow in your pelvis. This method yields a much larger concentration of viable cells compared to obtaining stem cells from fat.

Once harvested, the stem cells will be injected into the damaged disc. Although most clinics require multiple injections, Dr. Mathur’s expertise in orthopedic spine care lets him treat all patients with just one injection.

Stem cell therapy is effective in treatment of many spine issues, including:

  • Arthritis of the spine
  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Bulging disc
  • Low back pain
  • Facet joint pain
  • Disc with annular tears

One of the benefits of stem cell therapy is that it is nonsurgical. Once treatment is complete, the patient will be able to return home with minimal downtime. Dr. Mathur will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process.

Want to find out if stem cell therapy can help you? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Mathur at Cary Orthopaedics or contact our spine surgery team at (919) 297-0000. We have several offices serving Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and the rest of North Carolina’s Triangle region.

Stem Cell Therapy FAQs

Is stem cell therapy right for me?

Stem cell therapy is effective for most patients between the ages of 20 and 70. At age 70, the quantity and quality of adult stem cells produced by the body drops dramatically. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Mathur to find out if you’re a good fit for stem cell therapy.

How do I prepare for the procedure?

Make sure to drink plenty of water in days leading up to treatment. Do not eat in the four hours before the treatment. Discontinue use of anti-inflammatory (Advil, Aleve, Ibuprofen, Aspirin, Relafen, Meloxicam, Lodine, etc.) 5 to 7 days before you come in for stem cell therapy, and discontinue use of blood thinners a week before treatment when approved by the physician. Make sure you have a driver to take you home from our office. You should also wear loose, comfortable clothing.

How long does the procedure take?

The treatment usually takes about an hour from start to finish, with the bone marrow extraction taking 10 minutes.

How quickly does the treatment work?

Most patients experience benefits about 2 to 3 months after the procedure is completed. It takes about 12 months for the graft to mature completely, but relief is felt much earlier.

Is the procedure painful?

At Mathur Spine Surgery and unique to our practice, we utilize an anesthesiologist to decrease any discomfort associated with the procedure. Local anesthetic is used during marrow extraction to minimize discomfort. Most patients describe it as being no more painful than getting a shot.

Is there any downtime associated with stem cell therapy?

Patients are able to return home the same day, but we ask that you not drive yourself home, as the numbing agent will need an hour or two to wear off. We suggest spending the rest of the day resting. Light walking is recommended to reduce stiffness. You should also avoid strenuous activity for four weeks after the injection.

Are there complications from stem cell therapy?

Because the stem cells are natural, organic, and from your own body, risk of rejection or other complications is incredibly low. Some risks include:

  • Pain at the injection site
  • Bruising or minor bleeding
  • Allergic reaction to local anesthetic
  • Nausea/vomiting

How much does stem cell therapy cost?

The average cost is usually in the $5,000 range but can vary depending on the number of discs injected. This treatment is also not typically covered by insurance providers.