Knee pain can affect daily life, making simple tasks such as walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods uncomfortable. For people with osteoarthritis, injuries, or chronic knee pain, stem cell knee injections have become a promising option. If you’re considering this treatment, knowing what to expect before, during, and after the procedure can help you feel more prepared and confident.
Before the Procedure
Preparation usually begins with a detailed consultation. In addition to reviewing your medical history and evaluating your knee condition, your doctor might prescribe imaging tests like MRIs or X-rays. These tests help determine whether stem cell therapy is appropriate for your situation.
In most cases, patients are asked to:
Avoid anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen for a few days before treatment.
Prior to the surgery, make sure you eat a nutritious diet and stay hydrated.
Arrange for someone to drive them home after the injection if sedation is planned.
This preparation stage ensures that your body is ready and that your provider has all the information needed to perform the procedure safely.
During the Procedure
Typically, stem cell knee injections are performed as outpatient procedures, so you can return home the same day. The procedure typically involves:
Stem Cell Collection - Your bone marrow or adipose tissue are common places to obtain stem cells. This is done using a minimally invasive technique.
Processing the Cells – The collected stem cells are concentrated and prepared for injection.
Guided Injection – With the help of ultrasound or fluoroscopy imaging, your doctor will inject the stem cells directly into the affected knee joint.
The process usually takes one to two hours, depending on the method used. Most patients report only mild discomfort, similar to receiving a regular injection.
After the Procedure
Recovery varies from person to person, but most patients are able to walk out of the clinic after their injection. Some soreness or swelling around the injection site is normal and usually fades within a few days.
Your doctor may recommend:
Using ice packs to reduce swelling.
Limiting strenuous activities for the first week.
Avoiding anti-inflammatory medications, since they can interfere with the healing response.
Starting a physical therapy program to strengthen the muscles around the knee and support long-term results.
Improvement is often gradual. Some patients notice reduced pain and improved mobility within a few weeks, while others may experience benefits over several months as the stem cells work to support tissue repair.
Final Thoughts
Stem cell knee injections offer a less invasive option for people looking to manage chronic knee pain or delay the need for surgery. By understanding what happens before, during, and after the procedure, you can approach treatment with realistic expectations and a clearer idea of how it may fit into your overall care plan.
