Procedure Description:
Stem cell therapy is a cutting-edge, minimally invasive treatment that uses your body’s own healing cells to repair and regenerate damaged tissue. At Parkview Pain & Regenerative Institute, we provide advanced, image-guided stem cell injections to help relieve pain, improve function, and potentially slow the progression of degenerative conditions.
Why Stem Cells?
Traditional treatments often focus on masking pain. Stem cells work differently:
Stimulate regeneration – Encourage cartilage, tendon, ligament, and bone repair.
Reduce inflammation – Release growth factors that calm painful inflammation.
Delay or avoid surgery – May be an option for patients not ready for joint replacement or spinal fusion.
Long-lasting results – Some patients report benefits lasting years.
What it Treats:
Stem cell injections are used for:
Knee, hip, shoulder, and ankle osteoarthritis
Tendon injuries – Rotator cuff, Achilles, patellar
Ligament injuries – MCL, ACL sprains
Degenerative disc disease and facet joint arthritis
Sports injuries – Muscle tears, cartilage defects
How it is Performed:
Step 1 – Harvesting
We collect stem cell-rich tissue from your bone marrow (pelvis) or adipose (fat) through a quick, minimally invasive procedure.
Step 2 – Processing
The sample is concentrated in a sterile, closed system to isolate regenerative cells.
Step 3 – Targeted Injection
Using ultrasound or fluoroscopic guidance, we inject the cells directly into the injured area to ensure accuracy and safety.
Pre-procedure Instructions:
Stop NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) for 5–7 days before treatment.
Stay well hydrated.
Arrange transportation if sedation will be used.
Follow any fasting instructions provided by your doctor.
What to Expect after the Procedure:
Expect mild soreness for a few days.
Avoid high-impact activity for 2–6 weeks.
Continue to avoid NSAIDs for at least 2 weeks post-procedure.
Begin a customized physical therapy program to optimize healing.
Improvement is gradual — most patients see results over several weeks to months.
Evidence for Stem Cell Injections:
While stem cell therapy is still evolving, growing research supports its potential:
Centeno CJ, 2008 – First case series showing cartilage growth in knees with autologous MSCs (Pain Physician).
Hernigou P, 2014 – 15-year study showing sustained pain relief and reduced need for surgery in knee osteonecrosis (Int Orthop).
Vangsness CT, 2014 – Randomized trial showing meniscus regeneration after MSC injections (J Bone Joint Surg Am).
Shapiro SA, 2017 – Mayo Clinic trial showing safety and pain reduction in knee osteoarthritis (Am J Sports Med).
Chahla J, 2021 – Systematic review confirming MSC safety and potential for symptom improvement in knee OA (Am J Sports Med).
Ready to Learn More?
If you’re looking for a non-surgical, regenerative option for joint, spine, or tendon pain, our team can help determine if stem cell therapy is right for you.
Contact our clinic today to schedule your consultation.
Related Blog Links:
PRP vs. Stem Cell Therapy: What’s the Difference and Which Is Right for You?
The Role of Stem Cells in Regenerative Medicine for Pain Relief
Regenerative Treatments for Degenerative Disc Disease: Hope Beyond Surgery
References
Centeno CJ, et al. Pain Physician. 2008;11(3):343–53.
Hernigou P, et al. Int Orthop. 2014;38:2057–64.
Vangsness CT Jr, et al. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2014;96(2):90–98.
Shapiro SA, et al. Am J Sports Med. 2017;45(1):82–90.
Chahla J, et al. Am J Sports Med. 2021;49(7):2018–2032.