What it is
Stem cell therapy is a broad term for treatments that use cells with the ability to develop into, or support, other cell types. In regenerative and sports medicine, people often hear about cells taken from bone marrow or fat, or products made from umbilical cord, Wharton's jelly, or other perinatal tissue. Exosome products are also marketed in this space.
Here is the regulatory picture, stated plainly. In the U.S., the only FDA-approved stem-cell products are cord-blood-derived hematopoietic progenitor cell (HPC) products, used for certain blood and immune disorders in specialist transplant settings. They are not approved for tendon or ligament problems.
Most clinic-based stem cell, mesenchymal stem cell (MSC), adipose or SVF, umbilical cord, Wharton's jelly, and perinatal treatments are not FDA-approved. No exosome product is FDA-approved, and the FDA has warned the public about unapproved stem cell and exosome products. Evidence for tendon and ligament use is limited or investigational, and calling a clinic 'holistic' or 'alternative' does not change a product's FDA status.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Tendon and ligament injuries have long been approached with a mix of relative rest, activity modification, and guided rehabilitation. Physical therapists and athletic trainers often work on gradually rebuilding strength, mobility, and movement patterns.
Clinicians may also use imaging, bracing, medications for symptom relief, injections, or surgery when an injury is severe or does not respond to other care. Which of these makes sense depends on the specific injury, and a licensed clinician decides after an evaluation.
Some sports medicine and orthopedic practices also discuss orthobiologics, a category of biologic-based treatments. Because this area is evolving, a careful provider will explain what is established, what is investigational, and what is simply unproven.
How the right provider may help
The right provider may help by starting with a thorough evaluation: your history, how the injury happened, a physical exam, and possibly imaging. A good visit is mostly conversation, so expect questions about your sport, goals, and what you have already tried.
You can ask: What exactly is my diagnosis? What are all my options, including rehab and surgery? Is this product FDA-approved, and for what? Is it being offered as part of a study? What are the risks, and what are the alternatives?
Before considering anything, verify the clinician's license with your state medical board. If a study is involved, check that it is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov with IRB oversight, and ask for written informed consent that covers risks and alternatives. A trustworthy provider welcomes these questions.
The whole-person view
Body, mind, and stress affect each other. An injury can bring worry about lost fitness, identity as an athlete, or missed seasons, and stress or poor sleep can in turn affect how recovery feels. Looking at the whole person, not just the injured tissue, is a reasonable way to think about getting back to activity.
Some people find body-based support helpful for tuning into tension and movement habits, and Somatic Experiences is one resource to explore. Others find that talk therapy helps them cope with frustration, fear of re-injury, or pressure to return too soon, and Therapists.plus can help you find that kind of support. Neither replaces medical care for the injury itself.
Somatic Experiences: embodiment and movement →Therapists.plus: mind body connection →
Keep in mind
- Only a licensed clinician can decide what is appropriate for you after an evaluation, and licensed professionals should guide care for any serious injury or condition.
- Watch for red flags: cure-all or 'treats everything' claims, paying to join a 'clinical trial', testimonials offered in place of evidence, and pressure to travel abroad or across states for treatment.
- Be cautious of any promise of healing, tissue regrowth, or avoiding surgery, since evidence is limited or investigational and results are never guaranteed.
- For emergencies call 911. If you are in crisis, call or text 988.
Providers who often help
Get matched privatelyFrequently asked questions
Is stem cell therapy FDA-approved for tendon and ligament injuries?
No. In the U.S., the only FDA-approved stem-cell products are cord-blood-derived hematopoietic progenitor cell (HPC) products for certain blood and immune disorders. Stem cell therapy offered for tendon or ligament injuries is generally not FDA-approved, so ask any provider about the exact product's regulatory status.
Does stem cell therapy regrow tendons or ligaments?
There is no established evidence that it does, and no one should promise it. Research in this area is limited or investigational. A licensed clinician can explain what is known and unknown for your situation.
Can stem cell therapy help me avoid surgery?
No reputable provider can promise that. Whether surgery, rehabilitation, or another approach fits depends on your injury and an in-person evaluation. Ask for all options, including alternatives, in writing.
Are exosome treatments approved for sports injuries?
No. No exosome product is FDA-approved, and the FDA has warned the public about unapproved exosome and stem cell products. Be cautious with clinics that market them as proven.
How do I check whether a stem cell clinic is legitimate?
Verify the clinician's license with your state medical board and ask about the product's FDA status. If a study is mentioned, confirm it is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov with IRB oversight, and get written informed consent covering risks and alternatives. Be wary of paying to join a 'trial' or of testimonials replacing evidence.
What kind of provider should an athlete see for a tendon or ligament injury?
Sports medicine physicians, orthopedic specialists, and physical therapists are common starting points, and some practices also offer orthobiologics or regenerative medicine. Choose a licensed clinician who explains all options honestly. Providers.plus lists licensed providers you can explore.
Educational resource. StemCell.biz shares general information and connects people with independent providers. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.