Overview
The term stem cell therapy is often used for injections of cells taken from your own bone marrow or fat. These preparations contain a small number of cells that may have regenerative or anti-inflammatory properties.
The FDA has warned patients about unapproved stem cell products. Evidence for this therapy is limited or still evolving. It is usually not covered by insurance. It is not FDA-approved to treat any specific condition, and no outcome can be promised. Talk with your physician about what is known and what is not.
Please read: Evidence for this therapy is limited or still evolving. It is usually not covered by insurance, and it is not FDA-approved to treat any specific condition. No outcome can be promised. We will give you a written cost estimate before treatment.
Watch: what to know before stem cell treatment
Video: “What should patients keep in mind when considering stem cell treatment for orthopaedic conditions?” from AAOS on YouTube. AAOS is the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. It loads from youtube-nocookie.com only when you press play. Shown for general education; GSMC did not produce it. Watch on YouTube
How it works
Cells are usually collected from your own bone marrow or fat during the same visit, processed and injected into the target area under imaging guidance. See our bone marrow aspirate concentrate and adipose tissue pages for details.
Who it may be for
- Selected patients with osteoarthritis or tendon conditions
- Patients who have tried standard treatments
- Patients who understand the limited evidence, self-pay cost and risks
Your exam and imaging decide whether this treatment is appropriate for you.
What to expect
- Before: consultation, imaging review and written cost estimate.
- During: tissue collection and injection, often at one visit.
- After: relative rest and gradual activity.
Recovery
Expect soreness at the collection and injection sites for several days. Your instructions may differ.
Risks and side effects
Every procedure has risks. Your physician will review them with you, including:
- Pain at the collection or injection site
- Bleeding or bruising
- Infection
- Lack of benefit
Insurance and cost
This treatment is usually self-pay. We will give you a written estimate before treatment. See accepted insurance.
Frequently asked questions
Is stem cell therapy FDA-approved for joint pain?
No. No stem cell product is FDA-approved for orthopaedic conditions.
Will it regrow cartilage?
This has not been shown. We do not promise tissue regeneration.
What should I ask before treatment?
Ask what is being injected, where it comes from, what the evidence shows, the total cost and the risks.
This page is general patient education and does not replace advice from your own clinician. Individual results vary.