Stem Cells: 7 Myths and the Truth

“Stem cells” promise everything — from new cartilage to rejuvenated joints. Seven common misconceptions and what is actually known.

Myth 1: “Stem cells grow new cartilage”

There is no evidence that injections of cell products restore cartilage or “grow a joint”. In some patients they reduce pain and inflammation — that is the realistic goal.

Myth 2: “All cell products are the same”

They differ greatly. Bone marrow concentrate (BMAC) and microfragmented fat (MFAT) are harvested and injected in a single procedure. The stromal vascular fraction (SVF) is isolated with enzymes and in the EU is regulated as a medicinal product. Culture-expanded cells are used mainly in trials. PRP and CGF contain no stem cells — they are blood concentrates.

Myth 3: “One injection will solve the problem”

Any effect develops over 6–12 weeks and is usually partial. Without exercise therapy and load adjustment, results are worse.

Myth 4: “It is either a proven standard or pure experiment”

The truth is in between. PRP is widely used, with moderate evidence for knee osteoarthritis and tennis elbow. Cell-based methods are used in clinics, but studies are few and small.

Myth 5: “Cells help with any disease”

No. In severe osteoarthritis the effect is limited, and intravenous cell infusions “for everything” outside clinical trials are a reason for caution.

Myth 6: “The more cells, the better”

No clear relationship between cell numbers and results has been proven. Correct patient selection and accurate injection matter more.

Myth 7: “It is very painful and dangerous”

Procedures are done under local anaesthesia as an outpatient. Pain and swelling for 1–3 days, bruising at the harvest site and, rarely, infection are possible. The risks are small but real, and the physician must explain them.

How to recognise a reputable clinic

The physician reviews your images, talks honestly about chances and alternatives, injects under ultrasound or X-ray guidance and gives a written plan with the price. Promises of a cure or a “100% guarantee” are marketing. More on the cell therapy page.

Who it is not suitable for and possible risks

Contraindications

Active infection — at the injection site or systemic, with fever.
Active cancer or ongoing chemotherapy.
Blood clotting disorders or a low platelet count. Anticoagulants are discussed with the physician.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding — the procedure is usually postponed.
A corticosteroid injection into the same area in recent weeks.
Severe stage IV osteoarthritis with axial deformity and joint destruction — joint replacement is usually discussed instead.

Possible risks

Pain and swelling at the injection site for 1–3 days.
Bruising where blood or fat tissue is taken.
Rarely, infection. The procedure is therefore performed under sterile conditions with ultrasound or X-ray guidance.
The effect may be absent or smaller than expected.

If any of these apply to you, mention it in your request. The coordinator will check with the clinic physician whether treatment is possible. Contact a coordinator.

Scientific evidence

Studies of regenerative methods show mixed results. Clinic physicians rely on research including the following:

Pas HI et al. Stem cell injections in knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review of the literature. Br J Sports Med, 2017.
Caplan AI. Mesenchymal Stem Cells: The Past, the Present, the Future. Cartilage, 2010.

Next steps: Treatment methods · Treatment cost · How treatment in Germany is organised

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it true that stem cells can regenerate cartilage?

Partly. In laboratory and early clinical studies, cells from adipose tissue reduce inflammation and may support cartilage repair. There is no reliable evidence yet that they fully restore cartilage in humans; results depend on the stage.

Is stem cell treatment dangerous?

Your own cells are not rejected, but there are risks: pain and swelling at the injection site for 1–3 days and, rarely, infection. Donor cells are less studied.

How soon do stem cells start working?

First improvements — in 2–4 weeks (inflammation reduction). Structural tissue regeneration — 3–6 months. Maximum effect — 6–12 months after the procedure.

How does RegenPAS help organise treatment?

RegenPAS is a patient service centre in Munich, not a clinic. We review your images and symptoms and send a request to several partner clinics at once. Clinics that can accept you send their own conditions and price; prices differ between clinics, and you choose the option that suits you. The coordinator replies within 24 hours, and a clinic physician’s preliminary opinion follows in 1–3 business days. We then arrange the appointment, visa invitation, interpreter, transfers and accommodation. Treatment decisions are made by the clinic physician. Contact a coordinator.

What is needed for a preliminary assessment?

Your MRI (or CT, X-ray) report and the images if you have them, plus a short description of your symptoms and previous treatment. Send them via the form on the website — the assessment is free and without obligation: the coordinator replies within 24 hours, and the clinic physician’s preliminary opinion follows in 1–3 business days.

How much does treatment cost and how long do I need to stay in Munich?

The cost depends on the method, the diagnostics needed and the clinic itself: prices differ between clinics. We request offers from several clinics and send you their conditions and quotes so you can compare. Price guidance is on the treatment cost page. For an outpatient procedure, 2–3 days in Munich are usually enough: examination, procedure and follow-up visit.

Clinic and method matching — free of charge

Describe your case and attach your MRI report. We will identify clinics that use the relevant methods and forward your request to them. No obligation; we reply within 24 hours.

Send a request