What it is
Orthopedic regenerative medicine refers to a group of approaches that use substances drawn from a person's own body, or other biologic materials, in an effort to support the environment around joints, tendons and other tissues. People often look into it when dealing with knee arthritis, hip pain, shoulder pain or cartilage wear.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is made by drawing a person's blood and concentrating the platelets. Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) is made from a sample of a person's bone marrow that is processed and then injected. Image-guided injections use ultrasound or X-ray-type imaging (fluoroscopy) to help a clinician place a needle where intended.
Regulatory status matters. 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, used in specialist transplant settings. Orthopedic uses of BMAC and other stem cell products are not FDA-approved treatments, and the FDA has warned the public about unapproved stem cell and exosome products. No exosome product is FDA-approved. Evidence for these uses is limited or still investigational, and nothing here implies cartilage regrowth.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Joint pain and wear have traditionally been approached through conservative care first. This can include activity changes, physical therapy, strengthening and movement work, weight management, bracing or supports, and over-the-counter or prescribed medications chosen by a clinician.
Other commonly used options include corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid injections, which are regulated differently from biologic products, and surgical procedures such as arthroscopy or joint replacement when a surgeon and patient judge them appropriate.
Regenerative approaches are sometimes discussed alongside these options, usually where people want to explore additional possibilities. Which options fit a person is decided by a licensed clinician after an evaluation, and different qualified clinicians may reasonably see things differently.
How the right provider may help
A physician-led practice may begin with a history, a physical exam and a review of imaging, and may ask about what you have already tried. A good visit gives you room to describe your goals, daily activities and concerns, and to hear a plain explanation of what is and isn't known.
The right provider may help you understand your options, including conventional ones, and be honest about the limits of the evidence. They may also explain what any procedure involves, including risks, recovery expectations and alternatives. They should never promise results or a cure.
Helpful questions to ask: Is this product FDA-approved for my condition? If it is part of a study, is it registered on ClinicalTrials.gov with IRB oversight? Is your license current with the state medical board? Will I get written informed consent covering risks and alternatives? What conventional options am I choosing between? Be cautious of 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. Calling a treatment 'holistic' or 'alternative' does not change its FDA status.
The whole-person view
Body, mind and stress influence each other. Ongoing joint pain can affect sleep, mood and confidence in movement, and stress and worry can in turn make pain feel more intense or harder to cope with. Looking at the whole person, not only the joint, is often part of a thoughtful approach.
Some people find that body-based support, such as the approaches offered through Somatic Experiences, helps them build awareness of tension and movement patterns. Others value talk therapy, such as through Therapists.plus, for coping with the stress of persistent pain. These may complement medical care and are not substitutes for it.
Providers.plus lists licensed providers if you want to find a clinician to talk with.
Somatic Experiences: embodiment and movement →Therapists.plus: mind body connection →
Keep in mind
- Orthopedic stem-cell and BMAC uses are not FDA-approved treatments, and the FDA has warned the public about unapproved stem cell and exosome products.
- Only a licensed clinician can decide what is appropriate for you after an evaluation; licensed professionals should guide care for serious joint, bone or health conditions.
- This page is educational only and is not medical advice; results vary and nothing here is a promise or guarantee.
- For emergencies call 911; in a crisis call or text the 988 Lifeline.
Orthopedic stem-cell and BMAC uses are not FDA-approved treatments; never imply cartilage regrowth.
Providers
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Frequently asked questions
What is orthopedic regenerative medicine?
Orthopedic regenerative medicine is a group of approaches, such as PRP, BMAC and image-guided injections, that some physician-led practices use for joint and soft-tissue concerns. Most are not FDA-approved for these uses, and evidence is limited or investigational. A licensed clinician can explain what applies to you.
Is stem cell therapy for knee arthritis FDA-approved?
No, stem cell therapy for knee arthritis is not FDA-approved. 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. Ask any provider about the FDA status of what they offer.
What is BMAC?
BMAC stands for bone marrow aspirate concentrate, a preparation made by processing a sample of a person's own bone marrow. Its use in orthopedic settings is not an FDA-approved treatment, and evidence is limited. Ask a clinician about risks, alternatives and current regulatory status.
How is PRP different from stem cell therapy?
PRP is made by concentrating platelets from your blood, while stem cell preparations such as BMAC come from tissue like bone marrow. They are different materials with different processing and regulatory considerations. Neither should be assumed to regrow cartilage, and a clinician can explain how each is classified.
Can regenerative injections help me avoid surgery?
No one can promise that any injection will avoid surgery. Evidence for these approaches is limited or investigational, and individual situations differ. A licensed clinician or surgeon can discuss all your options, including conventional care.
How do I choose a safe provider?
Confirm the clinician's license with the state medical board, ask about the FDA status of any product, and get written informed consent covering risks and alternatives. If a study is involved, check that it is registered on ClinicalTrials.gov with IRB oversight. Be wary of cure-all claims, paying to join a 'trial', testimonials instead of evidence, and pressure to travel.
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.