Cerebral Palsy with Stem Cell Therapy

What is Cerebral Palsy?

Cerebral palsy is a neurological condition that causes movement and posture disorders due to damage to the developing brain. This damage may occur before birth, during delivery, or throughout early childhood. Although the condition is lifelong, its symptoms and severity can vary widely among individuals. Some people experience only mild motor challenges, while others may face significant limitations that require ongoing medical and rehabilitative support.

The brain injury that leads to cerebral palsy is non-progressive, meaning it does not worsen over time. However, the symptoms can change as the child grows, and secondary complications may appear without proper intervention. For this reason, early diagnosis, multidisciplinary treatment, and regular follow-up are essential for improving long-term outcomes.

Common Symptoms of Cerebral Palsy

While symptoms vary from one patient to another, the most frequently observed clinical findings include:

Muscle stiffness or weakness
Many individuals exhibit increased muscle tone (spasticity) or decreased muscle tone (hypotonia), which can make it difficult to perform everyday movements.
Balance and coordination problems
Motor planning, fine motor skills, gait, and overall coordination may be impaired, leading to challenges with walking, grasping, and performing tasks requiring precision.
Restricted movement
Limitations in joint mobility, involuntary movements, and abnormal postures may reduce functional independence and mobility.

Early physical examinations, imaging studies, and developmental assessments help specialists identify the condition and create a personalized care plan.

What is Possible with Stem Cell Therapy?

Stem cell therapy can be offered as part of a comprehensive treatment strategy to improve the quality of life for individuals with cerebral palsy and help slow the progression of functional limitations. The therapy aims to support tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and improve neurological function by harnessing the regenerative potential of stem cells.

Although stem cell therapy is not a cure for cerebral palsy, emerging evidence suggests that it may help improve certain motor and cognitive functions and enhance overall daily performance. Many families seek advanced regenerative care options to complement existing rehabilitation programs.

Stem cell treatments are most effective when combined with physical therapy, occupational therapy, and rehabilitation sessions that reinforce neuromuscular improvements.

Treatment Process

The treatment process begins with a detailed evaluation by specialist physicians to determine whether the patient is a suitable candidate for stem cell applications. Based on the patient’s medical history, neurological condition, and overall health status, a personalized plan is created. The process includes:

Stem Cell Applications Derived from Umbilical Cord Tissue

Umbilical cord–derived mesenchymal stem cells are among the most widely used cell types in regenerative therapies. They are recognized for their ability to differentiate into various tissues, modulate the immune system, and support cell repair at the site of damage. These cells are processed under strict laboratory standards to ensure safety and quality before administration.

Exosome Therapy Based on Stem Cells

Exosomes are nano-scale vesicles released by stem cells that carry growth factors, cytokines, and genetic material. They play a key role in cell communication and regeneration. Exosome therapy may help support neuroplasticity, reduce inflammation, and encourage the healing of damaged tissues.

Treatment Planning Based on Progress After the First Two Doses

Following the initial two doses of therapy, patients are re-evaluated. Specialists assess functional improvements and clinical responses to determine the next steps. Additional doses or complementary therapies are planned according to the patient’s progress and overall treatment goals.

Additional Support

Stem cell therapy is not used alone. It is incorporated into a holistic treatment model that includes:

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is crucial for helping patients maximize functional gains. Strengthening exercises, motor skill development, balance training, and adaptive techniques help reinforce neurological changes triggered by stem cell therapy.

Ozone Therapy

Ozone therapy may be used as a supportive method to improve blood circulation, enhance oxygen delivery to tissues, and help reduce oxidative stress. This additional therapy may contribute to overall well-being.

Diet and Nutrition Recommendations

A personalized nutrition plan supports immune health and tissue repair. Adequate intake of vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients can help optimize treatment outcomes and improve energy levels.

Liv Hospital Stem Cell Center

The Liv Hospital Stem Cell Center provides advanced regenerative treatments using state-of-the-art medical technologies and internationally recognized standards. Each patient is evaluated by a multidisciplinary team, ensuring a safe, effective, and personalized treatment approach.

Who is eligible for stem cell therapy for cerebral palsy?

Stem cell therapy is applied only to patients deemed suitable after thorough evaluations by specialist doctors. Eligibility depends on age, symptom severity, medical history, and laboratory findings. The goal is to ensure that each patient receives the most appropriate and beneficial treatment.

What is the purpose of stem cell therapy?

The main objectives of stem cell therapy include:

Slowing the progression of the condition
Improving certain motor and cognitive functions
Enhancing the patient’s overall quality of life
Supporting neuroregeneration through biological mechanisms
Reducing inflammation and facilitating better neurological communication

These goals are achieved through carefully planned treatment sessions tailored to each patient.

What methods are used during treatment?

The treatment incorporates:

Mesenchymal stem cells from umbilical cord tissue
Stem cell–based exosomes
Administration routes:
- Intrathecal (into the spinal canal)
- Intravenous (through the bloodstream)
- Intramuscular (into muscle tissue)

These combined approaches help target multiple levels of neurological dysfunction.

What preparations are made before treatment ?

Before treatment begins, the following steps are taken:

Comprehensive evaluations by pediatric neurology, anesthesiology, and physical therapy specialists
Blood tests including:
- Panel 1
- Panel 2
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin B12
Review of imaging studies, previous therapies, and functional assessments

These preparations ensure patient safety and help guide individualized treatment planning.

What other applications are included during the treatment process?

Supportive applications include:

Physical therapy and rehabilitation sessions
Ozone therapy
Nutritional support and lifestyle recommendations

This integrated approach enhances the effectiveness of stem cell-based treatments.

High-Standard Healthcare Solutions: Liv Hospital GMP Laboratory

The Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Manufacturing (Liv MedCell), located within Liv Hospital, is the first and only fully equipped hospital-based production center in Türkiye. It is licensed by the Ministry of Health and operates under strict current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP).

What Makes Liv MedCell Unique?

Fully compliant with national and international regulations
Advanced cellular and tissue-based product manufacturing
High-level transportation and implementation standards
Support and consultation for physicians
Infrastructure for clinical trials and innovative treatment processes

Liv MedCell provides a seamless platform that integrates research, clinical practice, and high-standard cell production, ensuring safe and reliable regenerative therapies for patients.

High-Standard Healthcare Solutions: Liv Hospital GMP Laboratory

The Center for Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Manufacturing (Liv MedCell), located within Liv Hospital, stands out as the first and only fully-equipped hospital-based production center in Türkiye, licensed by the Ministry of Health and operating under current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP). Combining cutting-edge technology with strict compliance to both national and international regulations, our GMP laboratory supports physicians with comprehensive cellular and tissue-based product manufacturing, transportation, and implementation services.

From consultation and infrastructure support to clinical trial collaboration, Liv MedCell offers a seamless, high-standard platform for advancing regenerative medicine and innovative treatment processes.

* Liv Hospital Editorial Board has contributed to the publication of this content .
* Contents of this page is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The content of this page does not include information on medicinal health care at Liv Hospital .

For more information about our academic and training initiatives, visit Liv Hospital Academy

Frequently Asked Questions

Does stem cell therapy cure cerebral palsy?

No. Stem cell therapy does not cure cerebral palsy. It aims to improve certain functions, enhance quality of life, and support neurological repair. Many patients experience functional improvements, but outcomes vary.

How long does it take to see results from stem cell therapy?

Results may appear gradually over weeks or months. Improvements depend on age, symptom severity, participation in rehabilitation, and the biological response to therapy.

Is stem cell therapy safe for children with cerebral palsy?

Treatments performed in certified medical centers using GMP-produced cells, under the supervision of specialists, are considered safe. Pre-treatment evaluations are essential to determine suitability.

How are stem cells administered during treatment?

Stem cells are commonly administered intrathecally, intravenously, or intramuscularly. The method depends on the treatment plan and the patient’s individual needs.

What is the difference between stem cell therapy and exosome therapy?

Stem cell therapy uses live cells capable of regeneration, while exosome therapy uses bioactive vesicles produced by stem cells. Exosomes facilitate intercellular communication and support repair processes.

Can adults with cerebral palsy receive stem cell therapy?

Yes. Adults may be candidates if they meet the medical criteria. Evaluations by neurologists and regenerative medicine specialists determine eligibility.

Do supportive therapies, such as physical therapy, improve outcomes?

Absolutely. Physical therapy and rehabilitation significantly enhance the benefits of stem cell therapy by reinforcing motor skills, flexibility, and strength gains.