Overview
Some injuries remain painful or function limiting even after high quality rehabilitation. In selected cases, a regenerative treatment may be discussed to support recovery, particularly when there is evidence of ongoing tissue degeneration or limited healing response.
Stem cell therapy is not a first line treatment. It is typically considered only after careful assessment, review of imaging, and discussion of goals and expectations. Evidence is still developing and outcomes vary depending on the condition being treated, the target tissue, and individual factors.
Your consultant will explain whether stem cell therapy is appropriate for your diagnosis and what results are realistic within a broader recovery plan.
Who this treatment helps
Stem cell therapy may be considered for people with:
• Persistent joint pain where regenerative treatment may be appropriate in selected cases
• Tendon or soft tissue conditions that have not improved with structured rehabilitation
• Ongoing symptoms affecting return to sport despite conservative management
• Imaging findings suggesting tissue degeneration where other options are limited
• Patients looking to explore regenerative options after consultant assessment
A consultation is essential to confirm suitability, clarify goals, and ensure that the condition is appropriate for this type of treatment.
What is stem cell therapy
Stem cell therapy uses cells taken from your own tissue, commonly from bone marrow or fat depending on the clinical approach. These cells are processed and then delivered to the targeted area to support local repair processes.
The aim is to:
• Support healing biology in selected tissues
• Improve pain and function over time
• Increase tolerance to rehabilitation and progressive loading
• Reduce repeated flare ups in selected conditions
This treatment does not guarantee regeneration and does not replace rehabilitation. It is best viewed as part of a structured plan that includes physiotherapy and graded return to activity.
What to expect during the procedure
Your consultant will outline the exact protocol based on your condition. In general, the process includes:
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Consultant assessment and confirmation of the target and treatment plan
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Collection of cells from the agreed source using a sterile technique
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Processing of the collected material according to protocol
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Skin cleaning and local anaesthetic where appropriate
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Image guided placement into the target area in many cases to improve accuracy
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Monitoring and discharge planning
Some protocols involve more than one stage. Your consultant will explain the expected timeline and recovery plan.
After the procedure
After stem cell treatment, it is normal to experience:
• Local soreness at the collection site and the injection site
• Temporary stiffness depending on the area treated
• A gradual change in symptoms over weeks to months rather than days
Your consultant may recommend:
• A period of reduced load while symptoms settle
• A structured rehabilitation plan with staged progression
• Follow up reviews to assess response and adjust the plan
• Clear guidance on return to sport timing based on tissue type and response
Benefits
• Uses your own tissue derived cells
• Targets the injured structure directly in selected cases
• May support repair processes over time
• Can be integrated with rehabilitation for a structured recovery plan
• Minimally invasive compared with open surgical approaches in selected cases
• May reduce repeated flare ups in carefully selected patients
Possible risks and side effects
Stem cell therapy is a specialist treatment and carries risks that depend on the protocol and target site. Possible risks and side effects may include:
• Temporary increase in pain or soreness
• Bruising or swelling
• Infection, rare
• Bleeding, uncommon
• No meaningful improvement in some cases
• Post procedure stiffness or flare up requiring activity modification
Your consultant will explain risks based on your medical history and the planned approach.
When to consider other options
Stem cell therapy may not be suitable if:
• The diagnosis is not appropriate for regenerative treatment
• The condition is best managed with rehabilitation alone
• There is an active infection or certain medical contraindications
• Structural damage requires surgical assessment
Other options may include targeted anti inflammatory injections, PRP in selected cases, nerve based treatments when pain is driven by sensitisation, or surgical referral where appropriate.
Safety note
Please inform your consultant if you take blood thinners, have diabetes, bleeding disorders, allergies, active infection, are pregnant, or have conditions that affect healing. Your consultant will advise on preparation, medication timing, and aftercare requirements.
Arrange a consultation to discuss whether stem cell therapy is appropriate for your sports injury and recovery goals.