Micro-summary: Most “stem cell” shots sold for joints are not FDA-approved for orthopaedic conditions, evidence for routine use is limited, and there are safer, proven options we can tailor to you.
What people are calling “stem cell” therapy
You’ll see ads for amniotic fluid, umbilical cord products, and exosomes, often marketed as “stem cells.” Today, the FDA has not approved these regenerative products for orthopaedic conditions like osteoarthritis or tendon pain. That includes exosomes. Be cautious if you’re promised a cure or guaranteed to “avoid surgery.”
There’s also bone-marrow–based care (for example, bone marrow aspirate concentrate taken from your hip and injected into a joint). It is different from birth-tissue products, but high-quality evidence for routine use remains limited.
What the evidence shows (and doesn’t)
Some small studies report short-term pain improvement after mesenchymal stem-cell injections for knee osteoarthritis. But results are mixed, long-term benefit is uncertain, and products used in trials don’t match many items sold at retail clinics. Major medical groups conclude that evidence is not strong enough to recommend routine use.
In the UK, national guidance highlights insufficient evidence and limits intra-articular stem-cell use to research settings. Patient decision aids likewise note no good evidence that stem cells help knee osteoarthritis pain.
Learn more: Use of stem cells in Orthopaedics
Risks, costs, and red flags
Any injection carries risk (infection, reaction, flares). The FDA has issued consumer alerts after serious adverse events from unapproved regenerative products. Also, because insurance rarely covers these shots, patients are often quoted thousands of dollars out-of-pocket, sometimes sold as prepaid “packages.” Ask for peer-reviewed evidence on the exact product and dose you’re being offered—most clinics can’t provide it.
Proven, step-wise paths we use at Catalyst
At Catalyst, your plan starts with a diagnosis-first approach: a clear history, exam, and imaging when needed. Then we match treatment to your goals and timeline.
- Rehab-led care: Targeted physical therapy and load management often improve symptoms within 6–12 weeks.
- PRP (platelet-rich plasma): PRP concentrates your own platelets. Evidence is mixed across conditions; when considered, we set clear milestones and reassess after 6–12+ weeks.
- When surgery makes sense: For structural problems, surgery may offer the most reliable path back to activity. Typical ranges (will vary by case): ACL reconstruction ~9–12 months to return to sport; meniscus repair ~3–6 months; meniscal transplant ~9–12 months; rotator cuff repair ~6–12 months. We use criteria-based progression—not the calendar alone.
Boise-specific next steps
- Go deeper with Dr. Tracye Lawyer’s explainer: Her article breaks down marketing claims vs. evidence in more detail – What Patients in Boise Should Know About Stem Cell Treatments
- Meet more of our team: Learn about Dr. Kaitlin Neary’s sports-medicine approach and how our surgeons collaborate for active Idaho patients.
- Ready for a game-plan that fits you? Request an appointment at Catalyst and we’ll talk through the options, no pressure, no gimmicks.
The FDA’s plain-language Consumer Alert on regenerative products (stem cells, exosomes, amniotic/umbilical cord products). It’s a quick, must-read before you spend money. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
FAQs on Stem Cell Treatments for Joint Pain
Are stem-cell injections approved for arthritis or tendon pain?
No. The FDA states regenerative products, including exosomes and many birth-tissue products, are not approved for orthopaedic conditions such as knee osteoarthritis or tendonitis.
Do these injections work for knee osteoarthritis?
Evidence is mixed and uncertain. Some small studies show short-term symptom relief, but major groups do not recommend routine use outside research.
What about PRP, how is it different?
PRP uses your own platelets rather than donor tissue. It may be considered in select cases, but guidance varies, and we set clear goals and timelines before trying it.
Why are cash prices so high?
Because insurance typically doesn’t cover these treatments, clinics set out-of-pocket prices and often sell prepaid packages. Always ask for product-specific evidence before paying.
How does Catalyst decide what’s right for me?
We start with the diagnosis, discuss benefits, risks, and alternatives, and build a step-wise plan that fits your sport, work, and timeline.
This information is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice. Every treatment has risks and trade-offs. Talk with your surgeon about your specific diagnosis and goals.