Cells able to renew themselves and, depending on type, produce specialised cells. Their use for discs remains subject to research and regulation.
Understanding the approach
Stem cells can renew themselves and generate selected specialized cells depending on their type. This explains research interest in discs and musculoskeletal tissues. A biological potential observed in a laboratory does not establish that an injection rebuilds a disc in a patient.
Indications and assessment
A proposed treatment should specify cell origin, preparation, target, regulatory status and relevant trial findings. Diagnosis remains essential because low back pain does not always originate in a disc. A testimonial or before-and-after image does not replace rigorous clinical comparison.
Benefits, limitations and precautions
Regulators warn about unauthorized cellular products and unsupported claims. Infection, immune reactions, abnormal growth and injection complications are possible risks. Using a person’s own cells does not remove those risks. Authorization to conduct a trial is not equivalent to established evidence of effectiveness.
Place in the care pathway
TAGMED does not present stem-cell injections as an offered service or a validated alternative to its care. Research can be promising while remaining uncertain. Trial participation should be discussed with a qualified team through transparent informed consent.
Goals should be practical: walking farther, returning to a chosen activity or reducing symptoms that interfere with sleep. Improvement immediately after a session does not establish lasting benefit. Follow-up compares function with the starting point, records adverse effects and considers progress between appointments. An inadequate response should prompt a review of the clinical explanation or proposed approach, rather than an automatic extension of the same treatment.
Before starting, describe the outcome you want, treatments already tried and difficulties encountered. Ask how the response will be measured and when another option would be preferable. Available reports complement the discussion without replacing your current experience, priorities or preferences.
Frequently asked questions
Are all stem cells the same?
No. Their origin, capabilities and preparation differ.
Is PRP a stem-cell injection?
No. Platelet-rich plasma is a different preparation.
Does trial registration prove effectiveness?
No. Registration describes a project, not necessarily a positive result or commercial authorization.
Are my own cells risk-free?
No. Collection, preparation and injection also carry risks.
What should I ask before paying?
Request verifiable authorizations, published trials, alternatives and plans for managing complications.
Conceptual diagram of clinical reasoning; not an anatomical drawing to scale.
Role of TAGMED care
This entry describes a medical or specialist option; it does not mean the intervention is performed at TAGMED. The clinic can discuss how its conservative services might fit into coordinated care, considering prescribed treatment, reports and specialist restrictions. Medication should not be stopped or changed on the basis of this page.
Medical references
- FDA. Important Patient and Consumer Information About Regenerative Medicine Therapies.
- Health Canada. Health Canada advises about risks associated with unauthorized cell therapy treatments.
References document the topic; their inclusion does not imply endorsement of TAGMED services by those organizations.
Educational information from The Spine Page. This entry does not replace an individual assessment. Documentary version: October 12, 2026. Sylvain Desforges, B.Sc., D.O., N.D., osteopath and naturopath.
TAGMED clinic contact details
For non-urgent consultations and information about available services.
Clinique TAGMED — Terrebonne
1150, rue Lévis, Suite 200
Terrebonne (Québec) J6W 5S6
450‑704‑4447
Clinique TAGMED — Montréal
1140, avenue Beaumont
Mont-Royal (Québec) H3P 3E5
1‑877‑672‑9060