Rick Perry recovering well from experimental stem cell procedure

Reporting from Dover, N.H. -- Texas Gov. Rick Perry is recovering well from back surgery and is satisfied with the results of an experimental procedure using adult stem cells, his presidential campaign spokesman Ray Sullivan said.

Perry had surgery earlier this summer. The Texas Tribune reported that the procedure was a spinal fusion and nerve decompression. The Republican governor also received an injection of his own stem cells that is not FDA approved, the Tribune reported.

Sullivan, Perry’s chief of staff in the governor’s office who has taken leave along with other aides to accompany him on this week’s announcement tour, said he was not familiar with the details of the procedure. But he said that Perry, who has been an avid runner for years, needed it to solve nagging problems.

“The wear and tear on his back got to the point where he felt it should be repaired,” Sullivan said. He added that Perry “consulted with his physician and decided it was the best course of action for him.”

“He’s very pleased with the results of the surgery; with the rapid recovery and with the procedure that he had,” Sullivan said. “He feels like that is certainly his right to determine the best course of treatment for him.”

Sullivan said he did not know if Perry is taking any medications during the recovery process.

For the past few days in New Hampshire, Perry has been wearing black Brooks running shoes that appear to have orthopedic support. Sullivan said the Brooks shoes were a better choice for the rigors of the campaign trail at this point in Perry’s recovery.

“Those are easier on his feet and his body than cowboy boots are,” Sullivan said. “I’m sure he’ll be back in boots very soon.”

maeve.reston@latimes.com