Stem Cell Joint Therapy

The joint injection is a standard one, the area is numbed then a small injection of anesthetic is given. The procedure may feel odd as the needle goes in but is usually not painful. There are, however, different types of nerve endings that may not get fully numbed and they can’t be seen with the naked eye or ultrasound. About 20% the time, the patient will experience a very brief pin prick pain. Our Medical Doctors are very experienced and skilled in these procedures and in general patients almost always feel calm and relaxed throughout treatment.

Depending on the condition or intention of treatment, the patient will receive from 10 and 50 million Stem cells and 1 billion to 3 billion Exosomes per joint. They are combined into one injection.

There is no fixed rule, but a week or two of rest for treated joints is best, with maximum 15 minute walks or light physical activity. Gradually increase out to two months but avoid pain levels over 3/10 in any exercise. Inflammation- avoidance is important. 

• Avoid NSAID anti-inflammatory medication such as Ibuprofen for 1 week before and 2 weeks after. This includes topical applications such as Voltaren. This is because by artificially reducing inflammation, it reduces the Stem Cells’ ability to identify and follow inflammatory mediator signals within the joint.
• Suspend blood thinners for 2 days before and 1 day after( confirm with your own Doctor).
• Avoid excessive alcohol for 3 days before and 2 weeks after treatment.
• Avoid Ice and cold treatments for 1 week after treatment.

Some patients experience an ache or swelling overnight from the fluid volume, it is rare for this to extend beyond the morning. We will give some pain medicine to keep handy.
Contact the clinic if this occurs. Any injection carries a small risk of local infection but this is very low. Patients are usually given a course of antibiotics to keep with them as a precaution.

Inform us of active Influenza or major systemic infection such as MRSA or HIV.

The healing and regeneration can take place for up to 4 months, though results and timing
vary greatly between patients.
Please note a small percentage of patients experience overnight elimination of pain, this
may last a few days only. If this happens it is essential not to consider the injury healed and then excitedly undertake heavy athletic activity. The cells take a bare minimum of a week or 2 to begin repairs, typically it becomes noticeable only at 2 to 5 weeks.
Full treatment effects are typically seen at 2 to 4 months though some patients report additional improvements up to a year after treatment .

1. How does stem cell therapy help with joint pain?

2. Stem cell therapy helps reduce joint pain by repairing damaged tissues, reducing inflammation, and stimulating the body’s natural healing process. The stem cells are injected directly into the affected joint, where they migrate to areas of damage and start regenerating cartilage, tendons, and other connective tissues​​.

Stem cell therapy offers a non-invasive alternative to surgery with shorter recovery time, minimal risks, and no need for prolonged rehabilitation. Unlike surgery, which may involve removing or replacing damaged tissues, stem cells work by regenerating and restoring joint function naturally. This therapy is particularly beneficial for individuals who want to avoid the complications of surgical interventions​.

While individual results vary, many patients experience significant pain relief, improved mobility, and tissue regeneration within a few months of treatment. Success depends on factors such as the severity of the condition and the patient’s overall health. Clinical experience has shown positive outcomes in a high percentage of patients, with improvements continuing over time as the stem cells stimulate healing​.

Yes, stem cell joint injections are considered safe when performed by experienced medical professionals. At CRC, treatments use umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells, which have a low risk of immune rejection. The procedure is minimally invasive, and side effects are rare, usually limited to temporary swelling or mild discomfort at the injection site​.

Ideal candidates for stem cell therapy include individuals who suffer from:

• Osteoarthritis or cartilage degeneration

• Tendon or ligament injuries

• Chronic joint pain or stiffness

• Sports-related injuries

• Patients seeking an alternative to surgery

Stem cell joint therapy is commonly used to treat:

• Knee osteoarthritis

• Hip degeneration

• Shoulder injuries (rotator cuff tears)

• Ankle arthritis or ligament damage

• Elbow conditions (e.g., tennis elbow)

• Wrist and hand joint pain