Exploring the Psychosocial Adaptation of Patients Undergoing Stem Cell Therapy: A Phenomenological Study
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Abstract
Regenerative medicine, particularly stem cell therapy, has shown promise in treating degenerative diseases and injuries, yet the psychosocial experiences of patients undergoing such treatments remain underexplored. Although clinical research has focused on biological outcomes, the emotional and social dimensions of this treatment process are less understood, particularly in how patients perceive and adapt to their treatment journey. This study aims to address this gap by exploring the lived experiences of patients undergoing stem cell therapy, focusing on their emotional, psychological, and social adaptations. We employ a phenomenological approach, specifically Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), to investigate how patients navigate hope, uncertainty, and social pressures throughout their treatment. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 12 patients, revealing that hope and uncertainty coexist, and that patients’ emotional experiences are deeply influenced by both medical expectations and social dynamics. Key results indicate that psychosocial adaptation is critical in shaping patient outcomes and that patient well-being is influenced by both medical interventions and emotional support systems. These findings contribute to the field of regenerative medicine by emphasizing the importance of integrating psychosocial factors into treatment plans. Furthermore, the study highlights the need for patient-centered care models that consider both the medical and emotional dimensions of the treatment process. These insights contribute to the development of more holistic patient-centered care models in regenerative medicine and call for future research into the long-term psychosocial impacts of stem cell therapy.
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