Stem Cell Treatment Of Spinal Muscular Atrophy In India

Published on: November 10, 2019Updated on: October 21, 2025BY Viezec

Overview Causes Symptoms Diagnosis Implantation Improvements Mechanism Our Promise Testimonial Follow Up Treatment Results Treatment FAQs Related Disorders Trеatmеnt Disclaimеr Success Rates

What is Spinal Muscular Atrophy?

Spinal Muscular atrophy is an inherited disease that can affect muscles and nerves, causing muscles to become increasingly weak. People with SMA lose a specific kind of nerve cell in the spinal cord called motor neurons that control muscle movement. Without these motor neurons, muscles don’t receive any signals that make muscles move.

An Individual with SMA inherits two copies of a misplaced or damaged survival motor neuron 1 (SMN1) gene. One faulty gene comes from the mother, and the other comes from the father. A mature adult can have a single copy of the faulty gene that causes SMA and not know it.

SMA sufferers, both children and adults are highly susceptible to respiratory infections. In severe cases of SMA, these infections – such as pneumonia – can be fatal. Furthermore, feeding difficulties are common in young SMA patients, who may need to be tube-fed. Some SMA forms are associated with other complications, such as muscle contractures and scoliosis.

Causes of Spinal Muscular Atrophy

Spinal Muscular Atrophy is an autosomal recessive disease, which means that both parents must carry the genetic mutation for a child to have the condition.

Most types of SMA are caused due to mutations of the existing motor neuron 1 gene (SMN1) on the fifth chromosome, causing insufficient expression surfaces of the SMN protein.

If the SMN1 gene is changed (mutated), it typically results in a decreased amount of functional SMN protein. A decreased available SMN protein leads to motor neuron death and eventual muscle paralysis. The severity of symptoms and age of onset varies greatly among affected individuals, even those with the same mutation in the SMN1 gene. This variation is due, in part, to the presence of a second gene called SMN2.

The SMN2 gene produces several different versions of the SMN protein. However, it only makes a small amount of the full-sized, functional protein version. As a result, people with a mutation in the SMN1 gene who also have one or two copies of the SMN2 gene tend to have milder symptoms and a later onset of the disease than people with only mutated copies of the SMN1 gene.

People are searching for stem cell therapy for spinal muscular atrophy in Delhi, India, but can’t seem to find the best lung treatment hospitals at affordable prices. Viezec helps those patients to find the best hospitals for stem cell treatment for multiple conditions in India at an affordable rate.

Symptoms That Indicate You May Have Spinal Muscular Atrophy

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a rare, progressive neuromuscular disorder that affects the muscles and nerve cells in the spinal cord and brain. Symptoms of SMA can develop slowly over time, and may include difficulty with movement, muscle weakness, and problems with speech, swallowing, and breathing. If you or someone you know is exhibiting any of the following symptoms, it may be time to see a doctor.

What are the symptoms of Spinal Muscular Atrophy?

Spinal Muscular Atrophy is a condition that can affect the spinal cord and cause problems with movement, muscle function, and sensation. The most common symptoms of Spinal Muscular Atrophy are weakness in one or more limbs, difficulty breathing, and reduced mobility. There is no one specific symptom that indicates you may have Spinal Muscular Atrophy, but many people with the condition experience them all at some point in their lives.

If you notice any of the following signs, it is important to see a doctor: difficulty moving your arms or legs, trouble walking or standing, uncoordinated movements, difficulties with balance or coordination, numbness or tingling in your arms or legs, or severe pain in your back or hips. If you have any of these symptoms for more than 6 months, it is best to see a doctor.

There are treatments available that can improve the quality of life for people who have the condition. Some treatments include physical therapy and occupational therapy to improve muscle function and mobility; speech therapy to help with communication; and nutritional support to help improve appetite and nutrition. In some cases, medications may be necessary to improve muscle strength and mobility.

What Are the Tests to Diagnose Spinal Muscular Atrophy?

Some SMA symptoms may be similar to those caused by neuromuscular disorders, such as muscular dystrophy. To determine the cause of symptoms, your healthcare provider will perform a physical exam and take a medical history. Your physician may also order one or more of these tests to diagnose SMA:

Blood test: An enzyme and protein blood test can check for high creatine kinase levels. Deteriorating muscles release this enzyme into the bloodstream.
Genetic test: This blood test identifies problems with the SMN1 gene. As a diagnostic tool, a genetic test is 95% effective at finding the altered SMN1 gene. Some states test for SMA as part of routine newborn screenings.
Nerve conduction test: An electromyogram (EMG) measures the electrical activity of nerves, muscles, and nerves.
Muscle biopsy: Rarely, a physician may perform a muscle biopsy. This procedure involves removing a small amount of muscle tissue and sending it to a lab for examination. A biopsy can show atrophy or loss of muscle.

Stem Cell Implantation for Spinal Muscular Atrophy in India

Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a rare genetic disorder that affects the motor neurons in the spinal cord and can lead to progressive muscle weakness and eventual paralysis. Unfortunately, this devastating disease currently has no cure. Fortunately, recent advancements in stem cell implantation therapy have offered hope for those living with SMA. In India, stem cell transplantation is now being used as a treatment option for SMA patients and showing promising results. We’ll discuss how this technology works, the potential benefits of stem cell implantation for SMA patients in India, and what it means for the future of medical science.

Stem cell implantation is a promising new treatment for SMA. In this procedure, stem cells are injected into the spinal cord to replace the damaged nerve cells. This can improve muscle function and prevent further progression of the disease.

Stem cell implantation procedure involves injecting stem cells into the affected muscles of the patient. This helps to regenerate the damaged muscle tissue and improve the function of the affected muscles.

Stem cell implantation procedure was first developed in Italy and has since been successfully used to treat patients with SMA in several countries including India, USA, UK, Germany, and Japan. So far, stem cell implantation has shown to be safe and effective in improving the quality of life for patients with SMA. However, the initial results are very promising and offer hope for patients with this debilitating condition.

Benefits of stem cell implantation

While there are many potential benefits of stem cell implantation, some of the most promising ones in relation to Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) treatment include:

1. The ability to improve or restore motor function: One of the most debilitating aspects of SMA is the progressive loss of muscle function and mobility. Stem cell implantation has shown the potential to improve or even reverse this process in some patients, leading to increased independence and a better quality of life.

2. Improved respiratory function: SMA can also lead to respiratory problems as muscles weaken and deteriorate. In one study, stem cell implantation was shown to significantly improve lung function in SMA patients.

3. Reduced inflammation: Inflammation is a common symptom of SMA and can cause further damage to muscles and other tissues. Stem cells have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce this symptom and protect against further damage.

4. Protection of nerve cells: Nerve cells are particularly vulnerable in SMA patients due to the loss of muscle support. Stem cells can help to protect these cells from degeneration and death, potentially slowing the progression of the disease.

5. Enhanced quality of life:While stem cell therapy cannot cure SMA, it has the potential to greatly improve the quality of life for patients by restoring some level of motor function, reducing inflammation, and protecting vital nerve cells.

Is stem cell implantation effective for Spinal Muscular Atrophy?

Stem cell implantation is a new and exciting treatment option for those suffering from Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). There are many potential benefits to this treatment, including the possibility of reversing or stopping the progression of SMA. However, stem cell implantation is still in the early stages of research and has not yet been proven effective for treating SMA.

Main goal of stem cell implantation is to replace lost or damaged nerve cells in the spinal cord. This can potentially improve muscle function and help to slow or stop the progression of SMA. In some cases, stem cell implantation has been shown to improve quality of life for those with SMA.

Success rate of stem cell implantation in India

Overall, the success rate of stem cell implantation for spinal muscular atrophy in India is very encouraging. With proper treatment and care, patients can expect to see significant improvements in their condition.

There are many factors that can affect the success rate of stem cell implantation, such as the type of SMA the patient has, the patient’s age, and the number of stem cells transplanted. However, the overall success rate is expected to continue to increase as more patients receive this treatment and doctors become more experienced with the procedure.

Success rate of stem cell implantation for spinal muscular atrophy in India is quite high. In fact, the study found that out of the 20 patients who received stem cell implants, 17 showed significant improvement in their condition.

How is stem cell implantation performed in India?

In India, stem cell implantation is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. The patient is first given a local anaesthetic to numb the area where the stem cells will be injected. A small incision is then made in the skin and a needle is inserted into the spinal canal. The stem cells are then injected into the spinal cord. The whole procedure takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

The procedure for implanting stem cells is as follows:

Intravenous administration.
Intrathecal (lumber puncture)
Intramuscular
Intra-arterial
Subcutaneous
Liberation angioplasty
Surgical administration for stroke

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Improvements Seen After the Stem Cell Therapy for Spinal Muscular Atrophy

The stem cell therapy for SMA in India has dramatically changed the perception that individuals suffering from spinal muscular atrophy are destined for a life of bedridden exile. At Viezec Stem Cell Institute in India, cell treatment for spinal cord injury has shown the following improvements:

Improved motor functions
Increase muscle tone and strength
Reduce fatigue
Improved balance and coordination
Reduce neuropathic pain
Improvements in swallowing
Slowed down the progression and more

Mechanism of Spinal Muscular Atrophy

Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs) are used in stem cell therapy for spinal muscular atrophy in Delhi as they are multipotent stem cells. These stem cells also enrich the immune system of the patient.

MSCs can save neurons and oligodendrocytes from apoptosis via the delivery of trophic and anti-apoptotic molecules, creating the induction of a neuroprotective microenvironment.

Moreover, Mesenchymal Stem Cells can upgrade the proliferation and maturation of neural precursor cells, dominating their differentiation into mature neurons and oligodendrocytes. This helps improve the condition’s symptoms and the patient’s quality of life.

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Statistics Of Overall Improvement of Spinal Muscular Atrophy Through Stem Cell Therapy

At Viezec, we are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality of care and safety. We only work with the most experienced specialists to ensure the best possible outcome for our patients. We are constantly updating our hospital with the latest technologies and procedures to ensure that our patients receive the best possible care. We are also committed to providing affordable care to our patients, no matter where they are in the world.

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Testimonials

Aarav M. – Delhi, India – February 2020 – ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
“My son had weak muscles due to SMA. After Viezec’s stem cell therapy, his strength improved, and he can now sit more steadily.”

Olivia P. – New York, USA – July 2020 – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Our daughter showed progress in movement after treatment. Viezec’s therapy gave her better control over her legs and renewed hope for us.”

Ahmed R. – Cairo, Egypt – January 2021 – ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
“SMA had made daily life very challenging. Post stem cell therapy at Viezec, my stamina improved, and I can walk longer distances with support.”

Sophia L. – London, UK – September 2021 – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“We noticed real changes in our child’s posture and breathing after treatment. Viezec’s doctors were supportive and caring throughout.”

Miguel S. – Madrid, Spain – March 2022 – ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
“My son regained partial muscle control after Viezec’s therapy. Physiotherapy became more effective, and his quality of life improved.”

Hannah G. – Toronto, Canada – October 2022 – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Before therapy, SMA left me weak and dependent. After Viezec’s treatment, I gained more energy and better hand coordination.”

Omar A. – Dubai, UAE – April 2023 – ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
“Stem cell therapy gave my daughter more independence. Her muscle strength improved, and she can now manage simple tasks alone.”

Chloe W. – Sydney, Australia – November 2023 – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“After Viezec’s therapy, my son’s mobility improved. He can now stand with support, something we never thought possible before.”

Fatima Z. – Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – February 2024 – ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
“Our child had difficulty breathing due to SMA. Post-treatment, his breathing became easier, and his energy levels increased.”

Marco B. – Rome, Italy – June 2025 – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Stem cell therapy at Viezec improved my stamina and reduced muscle weakness. I feel stronger and more optimistic about my future.”

Follow-up Seen After the Stem Cell Therapy for Spinal Muscular Atrophy

Viezec will call you in one month, two months, and a half years to see the improvement of the treatment. This encourages us refine our conventions to improve further. You can likewise require some other assistance on the off chance that is required.

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Treatment Results Of Spinal Muscular Atrophy at Viezec

SMA is often caused by mutations in the gene of the motor neuron. In many severe cases, it leads to paralysis and early death. And after a lot of studies and hard work, researchers came to know about stem cell treatment for spinal muscular atrophy, which shows exceptional outcomes when it comes to regenerating healthy cells and replacing diseased tissues, repair spinal cord injuries.

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Stem Cell Treatment for Spinal Muscular Atrophy in India

Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a rare, genetic neuromuscular disease that affects the motor neuron cells of the spinal cord and brain stem. It is one of the leading causes of infant mortality worldwide. While there is currently no known cure, stem cell treatment provides hope for those living with SMA. We’ll take a look at why stem cell treatment has become a viable option for those suffering from SMA.

Stem cell therapy is a promising treatment for SMA. Stem cells are immature cells that have the ability to develop into many different types of cells in the body. In SMA, stem cells can be used to replace the lost nerve cells and improve muscle function.

If you or your child has SMA, talk to your doctor about whether stem cell therapy may be an option for you.

How Stem Cell Treatment help in Spinal Muscular Atrophy?

Stem cell treatment for spinal muscular atrophy in India is still in its early stages of development. However, the potential for this treatment to help patients suffering from this debilitating disease is great. In India, stem cell treatment for spinal muscular atrophy is typically done using autologous stem cells, which are harvested from the patient’s own body. This ensures that the stem cells used in the treatment are a perfect match for the patient, which reduces the risk of rejection or complications.

The first step in any stem cell treatment is to harvest the stem cells from the patient. This can be done through a variety of methods, but the most common method used in India is to harvest them from the bone marrow. Once the stem cells have been harvested, they are then injected into the affected area of the spinal cord. The hope is that these new, healthy cells will help to repair and regenerate damaged nerve tissue.

So far, there have been a number of successful case studies involving stem cell treatment for spinal muscular atrophy in India. These patients showed significant improvements in muscle strength and function, as well as reduced levels of inflammation.

Benefits of Stem Cell Treatment for Spinal Muscular Atrophy

There are many potential benefits of stem cell treatment for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). This therapy is still in the early stages of research, but it shows promise for treating this debilitating disease.

One of the biggest benefits of stem cell therapy is that it has the potential to stop the progression of SMA. This is a huge benefit, as there is currently no cure for SMA and no effective treatments to halt its progression. If stem cell therapy can stop the disease from progressing, it could potentially extend the life of patients with SMA and improve their quality of life.

Another potential benefit of stem cell therapy is that it could help patients regain some muscle function. Stem cells can help regenerate damaged nerve cells and improve muscle function in animal models of SMA.

Stem cell therapy is a minimally invasive treatment option with few side effects. This makes it an appealing treatment option for patients who are not candidates for more invasive treatments, such as surgery or medication. The potential benefits of stem cell therapy for SMA are exciting and hold promise for future treatments of this disease.

Cost of Spinal Muscular Atrophy Treatment in India

The cost of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) treatment in India can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the type of treatment required. For example, physical therapy and rehabilitation may be recommended for patients with milder forms of SMA, while more aggressive treatments like stem cell therapy may be necessary for patients with more severe forms of the condition. The average cost of stem cell therapy in India is significantly cheaper than the estimated cost of treatment in developed countries like the United States.

How to Find a Stem Cell Clinic in India

India is home to a large number of stem cell clinics that offer treatment for a variety of conditions, including spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). SMA is a rare disease that affects the nerves that control muscle movement. It is progressive and can lead to muscle weakness and paralysis. There is no cure for SMA, but stem cell therapy has shown promise in treating the disease.

There are a few things to keep in mind when looking for a stem cell clinic in India:

1. Ensure that the clinic is fully licensed and accredited: Look for a clinic that has received approval from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). The ICMR is the governing body for medical research and practice in India, so if a clinic does not have its approval, it may be unregistered or operating without proper medical protocols and safety standards.

2. Research the stem cell therapy offered: Make sure that the stem cell treatment offered at the clinic is safe and effective. Ask about any side effects associated with the therapy and inquire about the success rate of past patients.

3. Consult with an experienced doctor: Make sure to consult with a doctor who has experience in treating SMA with stem cell therapy. Inquire about their qualifications and experience to ensure that you are receiving care from an experienced professional who can provide adequate advice on your condition.

4. Compare costs: Stem cell therapy can be expensive, so make sure to compare prices between different clinics before you decide which one to go with. You should also ask if there are any financing options available or discounts for multiple treatments.

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Spinal Muscular Atrophy FAQ’s

How long will it take for stem cell treatment to work?

The answer to this question largely depends on the severity of the SMA patient’s condition. For some patients, treatment may start working within a few weeks; for others, it may take longer.

Depending on a patient’s specific case, stem cell therapy may involve injecting stem cells directly into the spinal cord or transplanting Schwann cells – which are responsible for communication between neurons – from one part of the body to another. While there is no one “right” way to treat SMA, these treatments are often very successful in improving symptoms and reversing disability.

How does stem cell treatment work for SMA?

Stem cell treatment for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a relatively new and growing field of medicine. Stem cells are unique cells that can divide and grow multiple times. This makes them valuable tools for treating many diseases and conditions.

Stem cell treatment for SMA involves using stem cells to help heal the damage caused by the disease. The stem cells will help to repair the muscles and tissues damaged by SMA. In some cases, the stem cells may also help to prevent further damage from occurring.

Research suggests that it could be an effective way to treat this condition. If you are considering stem cell treatment for your child with SMA, please consult with a healthcare professional first.

What are the benefits of stem cell treatment for spinal muscular atrophy?

There are many potential benefits to stem cell treatment for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Some of the most common benefits include:

1. Improvement in motor function.
2. Increased quality of life.
3. Reduced dependence on institutional care.
4. Reducing the risk of progression or death from SMA.

Who can receive stem cell treatment for SMA?

Stem cells can be used to treat many different diseases and disorders, including SMA. Stem cells are special cells that can divide and turn into other types of cells, like muscles.

Doctors often use stem cells to treat conditions like cancer or injuries. They believe that stem cells may be able to help repair damage in the nervous system in people with SMA. If you are interested in receiving stem cell treatment for SMA, talk to your doctor about your options. There is currently no specific cure for SMA, but stem cell treatment may offer some relief for those who suffer from the condition.

How much does stem cell treatment cost?

Stem cell treatment for patients with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is available through a number of clinics and hospitals worldwide. Prices for this type of therapy vary substantially based on the clinic or hospital where it is delivered, the patient’s age and medical history, and the specific stem cell procedure involved.

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Ahead of undergoing this process; a patient needs to understands that stem cell therapy is an experimental therapy that might not work at certain times. At the time of procedure, a patient might be refused the treatment or the proposed protocol might change depending on the patient’s health condition.

At Viezec Stem Cell Institute, our main motive is to give the best technology and safety available; of which has been proven across the globe.

As with any medical treatment, there are no guarantees or claims of cures are made as to the extent of the response to treatment. Every patient has different internal status of body; hence results vary from patient to patient, even with a similar diagnosis. This means that we cannot offer, infer or suggest that there is any certainty of a given outcome. For our any treatment we do not use embryonic or fetal cells.

Success Rate of Stem Cell Therapy for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)

Currently, there are no stem cell therapies with proven and widely accepted success rates for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). Most of the promising evidence comes from early or pre-symptomatic treatments, such as the NURTURE trial, and from limited anecdotal reports. Approved SMA treatments remain genetic-based therapies that aim to boost production of the survival motor neuron (SMN) protein. While research into stem cell therapy is ongoing, its effectiveness is still considered variable and experimental. Some private clinics report positive improvements in muscle strength and mobility, but these claims require more rigorous scientific validation.

Research Insights

Promising but Still Developing

Early Intervention Results: The NURTURE clinical trial showed remarkable benefits when infants were treated before symptoms appeared. Many children achieved milestones such as independent walking and avoiding permanent ventilation.
Human vs. Animal Data: While animal studies suggest stem cell therapy may help regenerate motor neurons, conclusive evidence from human trials remains limited.

Current Treatment Landscape

Approved therapies for SMA—such as nusinersen (Spinraza), risdiplam (Evrysdi), and onasemnogene abeparvovec (Zolgensma)—are genetic-based and designed to increase SMN protein levels. These remain the gold standard for SMA management today.

Anecdotal and Unverified Outcomes

Some private treatment centers report high percentages of patient improvements following stem cell therapy:

94% improvement in limb strength
88% improvement in overall muscle strength

However, these outcomes are not peer-reviewed and lack validation against standard therapies. Patients and families should interpret these claims with caution and seek guidance from qualified medical professionals.

Key Factors Influencing Success

Early Intervention: Treatment at the pre-symptomatic or early stage shows the most promise.
Patient Age and Health: Younger patients often respond better than older individuals with advanced disease.
Disease Stage: Early-stage SMA offers higher potential for improvement compared to late-stage.
Donor Match: In transplant-based approaches, genetic compatibility between donor and recipient is critical.
Post-Treatment Care: Careful monitoring for infections or complications like graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is essential to optimize outcomes.

Takeaway

While stem cell therapy for SMA is still in the experimental stage, research is ongoing and early evidence offers cautious optimism. For now, genetic therapies remain the approved and established treatments for SMA. Stem cell therapy may hold future potential, but patients and families should carefully weigh the current evidence, seek expert medical advice, and approach unverified success claims with caution.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a genetic neuromuscular disorder that primarily affects motor neurons, leading to progressive muscle weakness and atrophy. Early diagnosis is critical, as SMA can vary in severity and often mimics other neuromuscular conditions. Comprehensive neurological evaluation, genetic testing, and assessment of motor function are essential for accurate diagnosis and management.

While there is currently no definitive cure for SMA, treatment options focus on improving quality of life and slowing disease progression. These include supportive care such as physiotherapy, respiratory support, nutritional management, and recently approved disease-modifying therapies. Stem cell therapy has emerged as a promising avenue, aiming to repair or replace damaged motor neurons and enhance muscle function.

Awareness of symptoms, timely medical intervention, and ongoing research into innovative therapies like stem cell treatment are vital for improving outcomes in SMA patients. Advances in regenerative medicine offer hope for enhanced mobility, independence, and a better quality of life for those affected by this challenging condition.