Overview
Stem cell based approaches aim to support the body’s repair mechanisms by using cells derived from your own tissue. Depending on the method this may involve obtaining cells from bone marrow or fat tissue and delivering them to a targeted area. The goal is to support recovery and function in selected conditions where standard conservative care has not been sufficient and where a regenerative approach is considered appropriate.
Not all conditions respond in the same way. Some problems are driven by advanced structural change where regenerative options may have limited effect. Careful selection is essential to avoid unnecessary procedures.
Who This Treatment Helps
Stem cell therapy may be considered for people with:
• Persistent joint or soft tissue symptoms where a regenerative plan may be appropriate
• Clear diagnosis supported by examination and imaging
• Symptoms that limit function despite physiotherapy medication and activity modification
• Goals focused on improving mobility reducing pain and supporting activity tolerance
• Suitability for tissue collection and injection based procedures
A consultation is required to confirm eligibility discuss evidence limitations and consider alternative options.
What Is Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cell therapy refers to treatments that use cells derived from your own tissue to support repair processes. The approach may involve:
• Collecting tissue from an appropriate site such as bone marrow or fat tissue
• Processing the sample according to protocol
• Delivering the prepared product into a targeted area under clinical guidance
Your consultant will explain what method is being considered and why. In many cases imaging guidance is used to improve accuracy and safety.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Your treatment plan may include:
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Consultant assessment and review of imaging
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Discussion of the collection method and target area
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Local anaesthetic and careful sterile preparation
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Tissue collection from the agreed site
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Processing of the sample according to protocol
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Injection into the target area under ultrasound or fluoroscopy guidance where appropriate
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Brief monitoring before discharge
The procedure is typically performed as a day case depending on the protocol.
After the Procedure
After treatment you may experience:
• Soreness at the collection site
• Soreness at the injection site
• Temporary stiffness or flare in the treated area
• Gradual change over weeks to months rather than immediate relief
Your consultant may advise:
• A staged return to activity with load management
• Physiotherapy to guide movement progression
• Avoiding heavy loading early in the recovery window
• Follow up review to track response and function
Benefits
Potential benefits may include:
• A regenerative approach using your own tissue product
• May support symptom improvement in selected cases
• Minimally invasive compared with open surgical options
• Can support rehabilitation when pain and irritation reduce
• May improve function and activity tolerance when appropriate selection is made
Possible Risks and Side Effects
Stem cell based procedures carry risks similar to other injection and collection procedures. These may include:
• Pain flare or soreness at the injection site
• Pain or bruising at the collection site
• Infection rare
• Bleeding
• Temporary swelling or stiffness
• Lack of benefit despite appropriate selection
Your consultant will explain personal risk factors and how safety is managed.
When to Consider Other Options
If stem cell therapy is not suitable your consultant may discuss:
• PRP where a simpler regenerative option is appropriate
• Steroid injections for inflammation driven flares
• Nerve blocks or radiofrequency options where pain is nerve mediated
• Physiotherapy and structured strengthening programmes
• Surgical referral in advanced structural conditions
Safety Note
Please inform your consultant if you take blood thinners have diabetes immune suppression active infection or conditions affecting wound healing. Follow rehabilitation guidance closely as early overload can compromise progress.
Arrange a consultation to discuss whether stem cell therapy may be suitable for you.