Could stem cells ease stubborn back pain? new trial tests injection therapy

NCT ID NCT03737461

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This clinical trial tests whether injecting stem cells into the spinal discs can reduce pain and improve function in people with chronic low back pain from degenerative disc disease. About 113 adults aged 18-60 who haven't gotten relief from standard treatments will receive either a stem cell injection or a sham procedure. Researchers will measure pain levels and disability after 12 months to see if the stem cells make a difference.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

allogeneic bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a new treatment option for people with chronic low back pain that hasn't improved with standard care.

What could go wrong

This is an early-to-mid stage trial with only 113 participants. The stem cell injection may not provide lasting pain relief, and there are risks like infection or nerve damage from the injection procedure.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

intervertebral disk degenerative disorder Low Back Pain lumbar disk degenerative disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • APHP Cochin

    Paris, France

  • BG Klinikum Bergmannstrost

    Halle, 06112, Germany

  • CHU Saint Antoine

    Paris, 75012, France

  • CHU de Nantes

    Nantes, France

  • Campus Bio-Medico University of Rome

    Roma, 00128, Italy

  • Clínica Universidad de Navarra

    Pamplona, 31008, Spain

  • Hospital Sagrado Corazón Valladolid

    Valladolid, 47002, Spain

  • Institut de Teràpia Regenerativa Tissular

    Barcelona, 08022, Spain

  • UH Montpellier

    Montpellier, 34295, France