Using stem cells obtained from tooth pulp, Japanese researchers have successfully treated spinal cord injuries in rats. Clinical trials for humans are a long way off, but the results have researchers optimistic.

The stem cells were taken from tooth pulp and injected into rats, which showed remarkable progress in walking without assistance approximately five weeks after treatment.

The study is the latest in several trials looking at treatments of spinal cord injury. Earlier this year, electrical stimulation of the spinal cord helped a man walk unaided after being left paralyzed.

Spinal cord trauma is one of the most devastating injuries a maritime worker can suffer. Maritime law attorneys see this injury most often in workers who fall from an elevation on a vessel or rig. Falls from platforms with no guard rails or in shipyards without adequate fall protection may result in these kids of injuries.

There are no cures for spinal cord injuries, and a worker who sustains this type of injury will have to undergo serious rehabilitation and physical therapy. These injuries also are linked to future degeneration of the spine and increasing medical complications.