Stem Cell Therapy — When PRP Isn't Enough
Mesenchymal umbilical-derived stem cell injections for advanced joint and tendon problems where regenerative care still has a real chance to help. Our Ormond Beach team is selective about who's a candidate — and honest when surgery is the better path.
What Stem Cell Therapy Is
We use mesenchymal stem cells derived from umbilical tissue. These cells have strong regenerative signaling properties — they help orchestrate tissue repair at the site where they're injected. Stem cells are typically used for the same kinds of conditions as PRP, but they're often considered when the joint damage is more advanced or PRP alone hasn't produced enough relief.
Conditions We Treat
Stem Cell Therapy is most effective for these conditions. If you're unsure whether it fits your situation, that's what the evaluation is for.
- Advanced knee osteoarthritis (when PRP alone hasn't worked)
- Shoulder osteoarthritis
- Chronic rotator cuff tendinopathy
- Severe tennis or golfer's elbow
- Other regenerative-eligible joint and tendon conditions
Mesenchymal Umbilical-Derived Cells
We use mesenchymal stem cell preparations sourced from umbilical tissue donors — a different source than autologous (your own) stem cells, with different signaling characteristics. The injection is delivered directly into the affected joint or tendon, often under ultrasound guidance.
What to Expect
- 1
Honest Candidacy Conversation
We don't recommend stem cell therapy to everyone. We review your imaging, your history, and what you've already tried. If the damage is something stem cells genuinely can't help — for example, a complete rotator cuff tear that needs surgical reattachment — we tell you up front.
- 2
Treatment Planning
Once we agree you're a candidate, we walk through what to expect, the cost, and how the injection fits into a broader rehab plan.
- 3
Targeted Injection
The mesenchymal preparation is injected directly into the affected joint or tendon, often with ultrasound guidance to confirm placement.
- 4
Recovery
Some patients report moderate soreness for a few days — usually milder than PRP. We typically recommend postponing high-impact activity for about five days while the soreness wears off.
- 5
Rehab & Follow-Up
We pair the injection with therapeutic exercise and follow up over the next several weeks to track response. The growth and repair signal continues for weeks after the injection — what you feel at week one isn't the final result.
The Practical Stuff
Number of sessions
Most patients receive a single stem cell injection per area. Occasionally a second round is requested down the road; we evaluate that case-by-case.
Downtime
Some patients report moderate soreness for a few days. We typically recommend postponing high-impact activity for about five days. Most patients are back to light daily activity right away.
Insurance & cost
Stem cell therapy is not covered by insurance. We don't publish pricing online — every case is different — but cost is discussed openly during your evaluation. Care Credit financing is available.
Selective, Not Pushy
We don't recommend stem cell therapy to every patient who walks in. If the underlying problem is a complete tear, severe structural damage, or something a surgeon needs to address, we'll say so honestly. Stem cell injections are most appropriate when there's still living tissue that can respond to a regenerative signal — and that judgment comes from the evaluation, not from a sales pitch.
Common Questions
What's the difference between PRP and stem cell therapy?+
PRP uses concentrated growth factors from your own blood. Stem cell therapy uses mesenchymal cells from umbilical tissue, which can have stronger regenerative signaling. PRP is often the first regenerative step for moderate cases; stem cell is considered for more advanced cases or when PRP alone hasn't produced enough relief.
Will I get a guaranteed result?+
No regenerative treatment can be guaranteed. We're upfront about that. Many patients see meaningful improvement; some see partial improvement; a small number don't respond. We discuss the likelihood honestly during your evaluation based on your specific situation.
Is there downtime?+
Some patients report moderate soreness for a few days. We typically recommend avoiding high-impact activity for about five days. Most patients return to light daily activity right away.
Are these stem cells safe?+
We use mesenchymal preparations from established sources and follow proper preparation and injection protocols. We discuss the specifics — including the source and what's known and unknown about long-term outcomes — during your evaluation.
Will insurance cover it?+
No. Stem cell therapy is not covered by insurance. Care Credit financing is available if cost is a concern.
What if I'm not a candidate?+
We'll tell you that honestly and walk you through other options — whether that's PRP, conservative rehab, or a referral for a surgical opinion.
Related Care
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Contact & Locations
Main Phone
(386) 800-3100Office Hours
- Monday: 9 AM – 12 PM, 3 PM – 6 PM
- Tuesday: 3 PM – 6 PM
- Wednesday: 9 AM – 12 PM, 3 PM – 6 PM
- Thursday: 9 AM – 12 PM
- Friday: 9 AM – 12 PM, 3 PM – 6 PM