A 7-year-old patient with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) from South Africa, received our adult stem cell treatment recently.
Nicole was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 2 (SMA Type II).
Reason for coming for treatment
Nicole was born with a neuro-muscular disease called Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type 2. The disease affects the motor neurons’ ability to function properly, resulting in continual loss of muscle and muscle movement. Life expectancy for SMA patients is between 15 and 30 years of age.
Condition before stem cell treatment
Nicole’s strength was very limited, her muscles were weak and she had difficulty in lifting objects. She was not able to stand, walk or crawl. She could not pull herself into a sitting position, but she could sit up unassisted. She could walk with braces and a walking frame with assistance. She had slow reflexes.
Course of treatment
Nicole had eight injections of adult stem cells, three were injected via intravenous injection, and five via lumbar puncture. No adverse reactions were seen after the treatment.
Condition after stem cell treatment
Nicole’s overall strength and endurance improved. At the end of treatment, she was able to stand with assistance. She could life small objects such as the TV remote and dining utensils. She also gained strength in her neck, to be able to hold it up by herself without falling down. At the end of treatment, she was able to crawl into her wheelchair by herself.