My LL doc mentioned stem cell, too, but I haven't heard of anyone who's had any success. It was first believed that my pain was caused by Lyme arthritis, so the stem cell was mentioned. It's quite costly, and not covered by insurance. I went to my PCP and had some x-rays done, then I went to two ortho docs, and they both said I needed a replacement.
I'm 57. I told one doc that I plan on living to be 90, so I was wondering how long a replacement lasts. He told me that I was cutting it a little close because they tend to last about
30 years. I could live with that, but I don't think I'll push it with any jogging, which I miss. I hope to have it done around Christmas time, if all goes well.
I asked my second opinion ortho if he thought the arthritis was cause by the lyme or could the lyme have made the arthritis progress faster. Of course, we'll never know. Apparently, I have poorly designed hips, and it's very likely it was going to happen with or without Lyme. Right now, I only need one new hip. Maybe, one day, the second will give out, but I'm hoping not.
Good luck with your stem cell. You'll have to keep us posted.
