Athletes seem unstoppable, performing at a high level even in their 30s and 40s. But how do they maintain such longevity and performance? An important secret lies in advanced medical methods, in particular, stem cell therapy. This unique approach allows athletes to actively protect their bodies and recover faster from injuries. In a famous podcast, Dr. Venkatesh Movva, a leading specialist in regenerative and sports medicine, talked in detail about why some athletes save their body cells and how it benefits them.
What is stem cell therapy for athletes?
Stem cells are like a toolkit for repairing the body. They can grow into different types of cells, such as muscle or bone, to help heal injuries. Athletes undergo a procedure to extract stem cells from their own body — usually from the bone marrow. These cells are then stored in specialized rooms under freezing conditions (cryopreservation).
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When their stem cells are on standby, athletes can easily access them as needed, whether to treat injuries or simply maintain peak performance in the off-season.
Why do athletes save their cells instead of retrieving them each time?
Extracting stem cells can be a lengthy and somewhat invasive process. Their storage provides convenience and efficiency. Here are the main reasons:
Stored cells can be ready for use at any time without repeated procedures.
Saved cells can be propagated in laboratories. For example, if an athlete needs cells for multiple joints, stored cells can be expanded to meet the need.
Cells preserved at a young age retain their full potency even as the athlete ages. This ensures that the body heals as well as it did years ago.
Dr. Movwa explains that this process works like an advanced “ice bath,” but at a cellular level.
How does it help athletes perform longer?
Top-level athletes face tremendous physical stress due to rigorous schedules and frequent injuries. Stem cell therapy is an active measure. During the off-season, athletes inject these cells into areas prone to wear and tear.
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Why is this important for elite athletes?
Athletes see their bodies as an extension of their career. Injuries can cost millions in advertising and club contracts. Storage of stem cells provides a robust backup strategy, ensuring they remain ready to play. Using your own cells eliminates the possibility of rejection and serious negative consequences.
