GOLF champion Jack Nicklaus has become one of the first people in the world to successfully undergo pioneering stem cell therapy to beat back pain – which cost just £36.
A back problem which the 78-year-old had suffered from childhood had left him unable to stand more than 10 minutes at a time, but now he is able to swing a golf club once again.
The 90-minute procedure, carried out in Germany by Dr Eckhard Alt, involved stem cells being removed from the abdomen and inserted into the lower back.
Experts behind the treatment believe it will become widely available in the next five years.
Mr Nicklaus, nicknamed the Golden Bear, told of his experience at the Unite to Cure conference in Vatican City, which brings together scientists, doctors, ethicists and faith leaders.
He said: “I can now stand for as long as I want. I played golf the next week and I thought this is pretty good.
“I wish I had met Eckhard about 20 years earlier. I’m a believer. I’ve had nice results.”
Mr Nicklaus underwent the procedure on his back in 2016 and is travelling back to Germany this week to have stem cells injected into his shoulder.
He said: “I like to fly fish and play tennis so it would be great if I could lift the arm higher and without pain.”
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