Stem Cell Therapy

IS STEM CELL THERAPY RIGHT FOR YOU?

Stem cell therapy may be a good option if you’re living with chronic joint, back, or soft tissue pain that hasn’t improved with other treatments like medications, injections, or physical therapy.

You may be a candidate if you have:

• Osteoarthritis or other degenerative joint conditions
• Ligament or tendon injuries (shoulder, knee, ankle, or hip)
• Chronic back pain from disc damage or degeneration
• Muscle injuries or long-lasting soft tissue pain
• Sports or overuse injuries that haven’t healed with rest or conservative care 

If you’re looking for a minimally invasive option to help manage pain and avoid surgery, stem cell therapy may be worth considering.

HOW DOES STEM CELL THERAPY WORK?

Stem cells are collected from your bone marrow, usually from the hip. These cells are then combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), a substance made from your own blood that contains natural growth factors.

When the mixture is injected into the damaged area, the stem cells help the body repair and rebuild tissue. Over time, they can support the growth of new cells like cartilage or bone, improving function and helping reduce pain caused by wear and tear or injury.

What To Expect During The Procedure

At your first visit, your doctor will review your medical history, symptoms, and any imaging studies to make sure stem cell therapy is the right choice for you.

On the day of your procedure:

1. Harvesting: A small amount of bone marrow is drawn, usually from the back of the hip bone.
2. Preparation: The stem cells are separated and combined with platelet-rich plasma to make a concentrated healing solution.
3. Injection: Using live imaging guidance (such as ultrasound or fluoroscopy), your doctor carefully injects the solution into the injured area.
   

The entire process usually takes about one to two hours. Most people go home the same day and can return to light activities within a few days.

What To Expect After The Procedure

You may notice mild soreness at the injection site for a few days. Ice and rest can help ease this discomfort. Most people resume normal daily activities within a few days, though strenuous exercise should be avoided for several weeks.

Pain relief and healing happen gradually as the stem cells begin repairing tissue. Some people feel improvement within a few weeks, while most others notice steady progress over several months. Your doctor will monitor your recovery and may recommend physical therapy or stretching to support healing.

Follow-Up Care

You’ll have a follow-up visit within a few weeks to review your progress. Your provider will assess how well your pain and mobility are improving and may suggest repeat treatments if needed.

Keep in mind that stem cell therapy helps stimulate healing over time and is not a quick fix. Following your doctor’s recommendations, staying active within your comfort zone, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can all help you get the best results.

After your procedure, it’s important to watch for any unusual symptoms. Mild soreness or bruising where the cells were taken or injected is normal and should fade within a few days.

Call your doctor if you notice:

• Pain that keeps getting worse
• Redness, warmth, or swelling at the site
• Fever, chills, or flu-like symptoms
• New numbness or weakness

Following your doctor’s instructions and keeping your follow-up visits helps ensure a smooth recovery.

Common Questions About Stem Cell Therapy

Is the procedure painful?

You’ll receive local numbing medicine before the bone marrow draw and injection, so discomfort is minimal. You may feel pressure or mild soreness afterward, but it usually goes away within a few days.

How long does the procedure take?

The process typically takes one to two hours from start to finish, and you can go home the same day.

How Long Does Recovery Take?

Recovery after Stem Cell Therapy is typically faster than surgical alternatives. You are encouraged to avoid strenuous activities for the first few weeks, but most can resume light daily activities within a few days.

When will I start to feel better?

Most people notice improvement after several weeks as the healing process begins, with continued progress over several months.

Is stem cell therapy safe?

Because the stem cells come from your own body, there’s very little risk of rejection or allergic reaction. Serious side effects are rare, but mild soreness or bruising at the injection site can occur.

Will I need more than one treatment?

Some people get lasting relief from a single session, while others may benefit from additional treatments depending on their condition and goals.