The story of 21-year-old Kristopher Boesen is one familiar to thousands of other people across the US. Last year, Kristopher was driving when his vehicle skidded off a wet road, hit a tree and crashed into a telephone pole. At the hospital, doctors informed Kristopher’s parents that he would be paralyzed from the neck down, but that he might also qualify for an experimental treatment for spinal cord injuries.

This treatment was part of an ongoing study at the University of Southern California’s (USC) Keck Medical Center that involved stem cell therapy. He qualified for the study.

Doctors at the center injected Kristopher’s spinal cord with more than 10 million stem cells. What occurred after the surgery was not only remarkable, it was historical. Two weeks after receiving the injection, Kristopher started showing signs of improvement. Within three months, he was able to use his cellphone, write his name and feed himself. He could also operate a motorized wheelchair.

Further improve could make it easier for him to brush his own teeth and use a keyboard. He could gain a level of independence that seemed impossible right after his accident.

What Are the Goals of Spinal Cord Injury Treatments?

While USC’s study on stem cells is not necessarily a cure for paralysis, it is a treatment that might one day improve the quality of life for people who recently suffered spinal cord injuries. Spinal cord injury treatments generally have two purposes in mind: how to prevent further damage and how to provide the greatest level of independence. Newer treatments are attempting to reverse damage by repairing nerve function.

Metier Law Firm coordinates with all available local resources to assist clients with spinal cord injuries. Our firm consults with top-not rehabilitation physicians, psychologists and other experts to stay informed on the latest developments for spinal cord injury treatments and therapy.

Source: https://stemcell.usc.edu/2016/09/07/paralyzed-man-regains-use-of-arms-and-hands-after-experimental-stem-cell-therapy-at-keck-hospital-of-usc/