Chronic low back pain is one of the most common and costly health problems worldwide. For many patients, the root cause is discogenic pain – pain coming from the intervertebral discs. Traditional treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or steroid injections often fail to provide lasting relief. In this landmark study, researchers followed patients for up to 10 years after receiving culture-expanded bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) combined with platelet products (PRP and PL). The results suggest that regenerative medicine may offer a long-term solution where conventional care falls short.
Methods: How the Study Was Conducted
Thirteen patients with chronic discogenic low back pain were treated between 2015 and 2016 at Regenexx Cayman. Patients received injections of culture-expanded MSCs (average dose ~21 million cells, range 6–45 million) prepared from their own bone marrow. The MSCs were combined with platelet lysate (PL) and/or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) before being injected directly into degenerated lumbar discs. In some cases, physicians also injected supporting structures such as facet joints, ligaments, and epidural spaces based on exam findings. Outcomes were tracked using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS, pain), Functional Rating Index (FRI, disability), and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE, patient-reported improvement). Patients were followed at regular intervals—6 months, 3 years, 6 years, and 10 years post-treatment.
Results: Pain Relief and Functional Gains
The findings were remarkable and durable over a decade. Key highlights include:
The following graphs illustrate these results:
Numeric Rating Scale (Pain) Over 10 Years
Functional Rating Index (FRI) Over 6 Years
Patient Reported Improvement (SANE) Over 10 Years
Discussion: Why This Matters
This is the longest known follow-up study of intradiscal MSC therapy. The sustained results over 10 years suggest that regenerative approaches not only reduce pain but also restore function and quality of life. Unlike medications or short-term injections, MSC therapy addresses underlying degeneration. The study also highlights the potential benefit of treating not just the disc but surrounding spinal structures when clinically appropriate.
The Regenexx Difference
Regenexx Cayman is uniquely positioned as a global leader in culture-expanded stem cell treatments. Unlike most clinics that offer same-day procedures, Regenexx uses advanced laboratory expansion techniques to deliver higher-quality cell doses tailored to each patient. This study reflects the Regenexx philosophy—combining cutting-edge science with long-term outcome tracking. Patients from around the world travel to Regenexx Cayman for access to these specialized procedures unavailable in the United States.
💡 Question: If regenerative medicine can give patients a decade of pain relief without major surgery, should it be offered as a first-line treatment for disc-related back pain?
Take the Next Step
If you or someone you know is struggling with chronic low back pain, now is the time to consider evidence-based regenerative options. Regenexx Cayman provides world-class stem cell procedures backed by the longest-term data available. Contact Regenexx Cayman today to learn how our treatments could help you avoid surgery and return to the activities you love.
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