---
title: "Stem Cell Therapy"
---
## How Stem Cell Therapy Works
Stem cell therapy uses regenerative cells to support the body's natural repair processes. The cells signal damaged tissue to recruit healing factors, modulate inflammation, and in some cases differentiate into the surrounding tissue type.
PHI offers both autologous protocols (cells harvested from your own body) and allogeneic protocols (FDA-registered cells from screened tissue sources). The right protocol depends on your condition, your age, your prior treatment history, and the tissue being targeted.
We use ultrasound and fluoroscopic guidance for every injection to confirm precise placement. Most patients return to normal activities within 48 to 72 hours, with full benefit typically observed at the 3-to-6-month mark.
## Five Protocol Options at PHI
## Conditions We Treat with Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cell therapy at PHI is used for orthopedic, spine, and soft-tissue conditions, including:
- Knee osteoarthritis and cartilage damage
- Hip osteoarthritis and labral tears
- Shoulder arthritis and rotator cuff disease
- Tendon injuries (Achilles, patellar, rotator cuff, lateral epicondyle)
- Ligament injuries
- Degenerative disc disease
- Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
- Chronic post-surgical joint pain
If your condition is not listed, your physician will tell you whether stem cell therapy is appropriate during consultation. Some conditions are better treated with PRP, A2M, exosomes, or interventional pain procedures.
## Why Patients Choose PHI for Stem Cell Therapy
## Your Stem Cell Therapy Process at PHI
## Frequently Asked Questions
**Q: Is stem cell therapy FDA-approved?**
Stem cell therapies vary in FDA classification depending on protocol. Autologous treatments (BMAC, fat-derived) using minimal manipulation are not classified as drugs under FDA Section 361. Allogeneic protocols use FDA-registered tissue sources. Your physician will explain the regulatory classification of any protocol they recommend.
**Q: How much does stem cell therapy cost at PHI?**
Insurance coverage and payment options may vary. We provide documentation for you to seek reimbursement through your out-of-network benefits, which may apply to certain services. All pricing is disclosed at consultation.
**Q: Stem cell therapy versus PRP, which is right for me?**
PRP is generally appropriate for early-stage tendon, ligament, and mild joint conditions. Stem cell therapy is typically used for more advanced cartilage damage, degenerative joint disease, and conditions where PRP has been tried without sufficient response. Your physician will recommend the right starting point based on your imaging and symptoms.
**Q: Should I try stem cell therapy before considering joint replacement?**
For many patients with moderate joint disease, stem cell therapy is a meaningful option to explore before surgical intervention. Joint replacement is irreversible; stem cell therapy is not. Patients with severe end-stage arthritis may still ultimately need surgery, but many delay or avoid it through regenerative protocols. Your physician will give you an honest assessment for your stage of disease.
**Q: Where are PHI's stem cell procedures performed?**
In-clinic at our Beverly Hills practice, performed by your physician under image guidance with sterile technique. Stem cell therapy is a regenerative injection and does not require a surgical facility. For interventional procedures that do, PHI is affiliated with an outpatient surgical suite.
**Q: How long until I see results?**
Most patients report meaningful improvement at the 3-month mark, with continued progression through 6 months. Some report earlier symptom changes. Stem cell therapy supports a biological repair process, which takes time, and your physician will set specific expectations based on your protocol and condition.
**Q: Do you accept international patients?**
Yes. PHI regularly treats patients from outside Los Angeles, including Las Vegas, Palm Springs, London, and other international locations. Travel coordination, treatment sequencing, and follow-up logistics are handled by our concierge team.
> Adipose tissue stem cells for therapy: an update on the progress of isolation, culture, storage, and clinical application. Peer-reviewed via PMC.
— [Chu DT, et al.](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6678927/)
> 21 CFR Part 1271: Human Cells, Tissues, and Cellular and Tissue-Based Products (HCT/Ps). U.S. Code of Federal Regulations.
— [U.S. Code of Federal Regulations](https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-L/part-1271)
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