EL PASO, Texas – Just a few steps across the Texas and Mexico border, people seek alternative treatment.

Doctor Omar Gonzalez combines acupuncture with stem cell therapy.

Gonzalez is among a growing number of doctors in Mexico offering this type of treatment.

Dr. Gonzalez says that most of his patients are American.

They suffer from various diseases from cancer to arthritis.

“I really could hardly walk anymore,” said a patient who also happens to be a nun.

Doctor Gonzalez treats the women for free. He usually charges between $500 to $10,000 depending on the treatment needed.

Researchers agree stem cells can be used to treat some diseases, but right now there’s still not enough proof.

Stem cell research is advancing in the United States. Clinic trials are just beginning and that means it could take years before people who go to Mexico are able to get treatment at home.

Meanwhile, Doctor Gonzalez continues to treat individuals in need.

His website is filled with testimonials from people who say the treatment works despite the risks.

“I haven’t grown an extra arm or anything. I haven’t seen anything different happen to my body, except get better,” said one woman.