Is Stem Cell Therapy Worth It for Knee Pain? Breaking Down Pros and Cons

OC Wellness Physicians
Sep 1
2 min read

Knee pain is something many people face, whether from arthritis, injuries, or years of wear and tear. Traditional treatments often include pain medication, physical therapy, or even knee replacement surgery. Stem cell treatment has drawn interest recently as a potential remedy. But is it really worth it? Let’s break down the pros and cons of stem cell therapy for knee pain so you can have a clearer picture.

What is Stem Cell Therapy for Knee Pain?

Stem cells are unique cells in the body that can develop into different types of tissue. In knee treatments, doctors usually take stem cells from bone marrow or fat tissue and inject them into the knee joint. The idea is that these cells may reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and potentially help repair damaged cartilage.

This type of treatment is often used for people with osteoarthritis, cartilage injuries, or sports-related knee damage.

Pros of Stem Cell Therapy for Knees

Less invasive than surgery: Stem cell injections don’t require cutting into the joint or lengthy hospital stays.
Pain reduction: Many patients report less pain after treatment.
Increased mobility: Stem cells may contribute to the joint's increased flexibility and range of motion.
Delay or avoid surgery: Some patients use stem cell therapy to push back the need for knee replacement.
Quicker recovery: Most patients resume daily activities in days or weeks, unlike months of surgical recovery.

Cons of Stem Cell Therapy for Knees

Still under study: Research is promising but not yet conclusive, and long-term results vary.
Not FDA-approved for all uses: Regulations differ, and some clinics may operate in a gray area.
Inconsistent results: While some patients feel better, others notice little change.
High cost: Treatments can run into thousands of dollars and are rarely covered by insurance.
Possible side effects: Risks include swelling, infection, or discomfort at the injection site.

How It Compares to Other Treatments

There are various treatments for treating knee discomfort, including stem cell therapy:

PRP therapy (Platelet-Rich Plasma): Uses blood platelets to aid healing.
Physical therapy: Non-invasive and effective for mild cases.
Knee replacement: A reliable solution for severe arthritis but comes with long recovery times.