Stem Cells Are Being Used To Help Stroke Patients Walk Again

Walking, it's such an amazing thing. There's no doubt in my mind that most people, myself included, take walking for granted. Not only is it something that we were unable to do when we first came into the world, but it's also something that can be taken away from us at any moment. Being unable to walk is a very real fear for many people, with some even having that capability taken away from them. Strokes are one of many things that can render people unable to walk, but it appears doctors have figured out a way that may help stroke patients walk again.


Do you know anyone who loves science? SHAREthis with them!

To understand how people can be helped, it's important to first understand what a stroke is. So, let's get to it!

A stroke is caused when brain cells fail to receive blood.

This happens through a rupture (hemorrhagic stroke) or a blockage (ischemic stroke) in a blood vessel. The lack of blood results in cell death.

Losing the ability to walk is one of many side effects waiting for stroke victims. This occurs through the death of cells that are responsible for this function.

That's where stem cells come in. Stem cells are special because they have the ability to transform into all kinds of cells.

Think of them as a blank slate (sort of).

There have been multiple accounts that show how stem cells can help regenerate people's ability to move again.

A woman whose joints were degenerating recently regained the ability to walk.

One Stanford trial allowed a 71-year-old woman to walk and raise her arm again. At the start of the process, she could barely move her left thumb.

These are some awesome discoveries!

Do you know anyone who loves science? Don't forget to SHARE this with them!