Stem Cell Therapy
An experimental treatment that uses stem cells to attempt to regenerate damaged joint tissue. Currently not FDA-approved for arthritis and not covered by Medicare.
Extended Definition
Stem cell therapy for joints involves harvesting cells (often from bone marrow or fat tissue) and injecting them into damaged joints with the goal of regenerating cartilage and other tissues.
Current Status
Important Facts:
- Not FDA-approved for treating arthritis
- Not covered by Medicare or most insurance
- Limited evidence from rigorous clinical trials
- Costs $3,000-$10,000+ out of pocket
Types of Stem Cell Treatments
- Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC) - Cells harvested from hip bone
- Adipose-Derived - Cells from fat tissue
- Umbilical/Amniotic - Cells from donated tissue (claims often exaggerated)
What Research Shows
Current evidence is limited:
- Small studies show mixed results
- No large, high-quality randomized trials
- Unknown long-term safety profile
- FDA has warned against unproven claims
Red Flags
Be cautious of providers who:
- Guarantee cartilage regrowth
- Claim FDA approval for arthritis
- Charge thousands for “miracle cures”
- Discourage discussing with your regular doctor
Bottom Line
While stem cell therapy is an active area of research, it remains experimental for arthritis. Proven treatments like HA injections, physical therapy, and when needed, surgery, have established safety and efficacy profiles.
Related Terms
More Treatments Terms
View allCorticosteroid
A powerful anti-inflammatory medication similar to cortisol (a hormone naturally produced by the body) that can be injected into joints to quickly reduce swelling and pain.
Hyaluronic Acid
A naturally occurring substance found in synovial fluid that gives it its thick, gel-like consistency and lubricating properties. Also used as an injection treatment for joint pain.
Molecular Weight
The size of a molecule measured in daltons. In hyaluronic acid products, molecular weight affects how thick and long-lasting the injection is, with higher molecular weight typically providing longer relief.
NSAID
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug - a type of medication that reduces pain, inflammation, and fever by blocking enzymes that produce inflammatory chemicals in the body.
Nerve Block
An injection of anesthetic near specific nerves to temporarily block pain signals. Used for diagnosis, pain relief, or before surgery. Effects last hours to months depending on medication used.