Key Takeaways
- Uses your own cells, not donor products. At ISPW, we use only bone marrow stem cells (BMAC) from your own body—no umbilical cord products, no adipose tissue, no third-party donors.
- Targets inflammation, not just symptoms. Bone marrow stem cells may work through anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory mechanisms, addressing factors that contribute to joint discomfort rather than temporarily masking pain.
- Best suited for mild to moderate arthritis. Ideal candidates typically have early to moderate osteoarthritis. Advanced, end-stage “bone-on-bone” arthritis generally requires surgical intervention.
- Gradual response over months. This isn’t a quick fix—the body’s response develops over weeks to months, not days. Results vary significantly by individual.
- Part of a comprehensive approach. Bone marrow stem cell therapy works best as one component of a complete treatment strategy that may include physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, and other supportive care.
- Cannot cure arthritis. This treatment may help manage symptoms and support joint health, but it does not reverse arthritis or regrow cartilage.
Understanding Arthritis and the Search for Better Options
Arthritis joint pain affects millions of people, limiting mobility and reducing quality of life. Traditional treatments—medications, physical therapy, cortisone injections—can provide relief, but many patients seek approaches that go beyond temporary symptom management.
Bone marrow stem cell therapy has emerged as a regenerative option that some patients explore before considering joint replacement surgery. This treatment uses your body’s own cells to potentially support natural processes in the joint environment.
But what can you realistically expect? This guide examines how bone marrow stem cell therapy works for arthritis, who may be appropriate candidates, and what the treatment can—and cannot—accomplish.
What Is Bone Marrow Stem Cell Therapy for Arthritis?
Bone marrow stem cell therapy for arthritis involves harvesting mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from your own bone marrow, concentrating them, and delivering them directly into the affected joint.
How It Works at Our Clinic:
At Integrated Spine, Pain & Wellness, we use BMAC (bone marrow aspirate concentrate)—your own bone marrow cells harvested from your iliac crest (hip bone), processed in our office the same day, and injected into your arthritic joint using image guidance.
What We Use:
- Your own bone marrow stem cells (BMAC)
- Same-day harvesting, processing, and delivery
- No lab culturing or cell expansion
- Image-guided injection for precise placement
What We Don’t Use:
- Adipose (fat) tissue-derived stem cells
- Umbilical cord blood or tissue products
- Amniotic fluid products
- Any third-party donor cells
- Lab-cultured or expanded cells
- Third-party exosomes
This distinction matters. Many clinics advertise “stem cell therapy” using products from donors—umbilical cord tissue, amniotic fluid, or other sources. These products raise questions about cell viability, quality control, and what patients are actually receiving. At ISPW, you know exactly what’s being delivered: your own bone marrow stem cells, processed fresh, same day.
How May Bone Marrow Stem Cells Work for Arthritis?
Current understanding suggests that mesenchymal stem cells may work primarily through signaling mechanisms rather than directly replacing damaged cartilage.
Potential Mechanisms:
Paracrine Signaling: MSCs release bioactive molecules—growth factors, cytokines, and other proteins—that may influence the surrounding joint environment.
Immunomodulation: Components may help modulate inflammatory responses within the joint, potentially calming the chronic inflammation characteristic of osteoarthritis.
Cellular Communication: MSCs may interact with existing cells in the joint to support the local tissue environment.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: MSCs may release molecules that help reduce pro-inflammatory signals in the joint space.
Important Understanding:
Bone marrow stem cell therapy does not regrow cartilage or reverse arthritis. The primary potential benefit is supporting the joint environment and modulating inflammation—not rebuilding lost tissue. Individual responses vary significantly, and these potential mechanisms don’t guarantee specific outcomes.
Who May Be a Good Candidate?
Not everyone with arthritis is an appropriate candidate for bone marrow stem cell therapy. The treatment appears most relevant for certain patient profiles.
Characteristics of Potential Candidates:
- Mild to moderate osteoarthritis (not end-stage)
- Joint pain that affects daily activities and quality of life
- Have tried conservative treatments (physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, possibly cortisone injections) without adequate relief
- Good overall health
- Looking to explore options before considering joint replacement
- Realistic expectations about gradual improvement and variable outcomes
Joints Commonly Considered:
- Knee osteoarthritis
- Hip osteoarthritis
- Shoulder osteoarthritis
- Other weight-bearing joints with degenerative changes
Who May Not Be a Good Candidate:
- Advanced, end-stage arthritis: Severe “bone-on-bone” degeneration with significant joint space loss typically requires surgical intervention
- Inflammatory arthritis: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis involve different disease processes
- Significant structural damage: Complete cartilage loss, major bone changes, or severe deformity
- Active infections or certain health conditions
- Those expecting guaranteed results or immediate relief
The Importance of Staging:
The stage of your arthritis significantly influences whether regenerative treatment may be worth considering. Early to moderate osteoarthritis—where cartilage damage is present but not complete, and joint structure remains reasonably intact—may be more appropriate for this approach than advanced disease.
During your consultation, Dr. Goyle will review your imaging to assess your joint’s current condition and provide honest guidance about whether bone marrow stem cell therapy makes sense for your situation.
What Can You Realistically Expect?
Setting appropriate expectations is essential for making good decisions about your care.
What Bone Marrow Stem Cell Therapy May Offer:
- A minimally invasive procedure performed in our office
- Use of your own biological materials with no rejection risk
- An option to explore before committing to joint replacement surgery
- Support for your body’s natural processes in the joint environment
- Gradual response development over weeks to months
What It Cannot Guarantee:
- Specific outcomes or success rates
- That it will work for you specifically
- That you will avoid joint replacement surgery
- Immediate pain relief
- Regrowth of lost cartilage
- Reversal of arthritis
- Results equivalent to joint replacement for advanced disease
Realistic Timeline:
The body’s response to bone marrow stem cell therapy develops gradually:
- Weeks 1-2: Some discomfort at aspiration and injection sites is normal
- Weeks 4-8: Some patients begin noticing gradual changes
- Months 3-6: Continued response; this is when many patients report the most noticeable changes if treatment is beneficial
- Months 6-12+: Ongoing gradual response for some patients
Individual timelines vary significantly. Some patients experience meaningful improvement; others don’t notice significant changes. This isn’t a quick fix like a cortisone injection—it’s supporting gradual natural processes.
Understanding Variable Outcomes:
We want to be transparent: not all patients respond to bone marrow stem cell therapy. Individual outcomes depend on many factors:
- The specific condition and its severity
- How much healthy tissue remains in the joint
- Overall health and lifestyle factors
- Individual biological response (which we cannot fully predict)
If you proceed with treatment and don’t experience adequate improvement, other options remain available—including additional regenerative approaches, other interventional procedures, or surgical consultation.
How Does This Compare to Other Arthritis Treatments?
Understanding how bone marrow stem cell therapy fits among your options helps you make informed decisions.
Compared to Cortisone Injections:
Cortisone injections provide temporary anti-inflammatory effects, typically lasting weeks to months. They can help manage symptoms but don’t address underlying tissue changes. Repeated cortisone injections may have diminishing returns over time.
Bone marrow stem cell therapy takes a different approach—delivering your own regenerative cells to the joint environment. The two treatments work through different mechanisms. Some patients use cortisone for acute flares while exploring regenerative options for longer-term management.
Compared to Hyaluronic Acid Injections:
Hyaluronic acid (viscosupplementation) lubricates the joint and may provide cushioning. Bone marrow stem cell therapy delivers living cells with potential biological activity. Some protocols combine these approaches.
Compared to PRP Therapy:
Both BMAC and PRP use your own biological materials. PRP concentrates platelets and their associated growth factors from your blood. BMAC concentrates mesenchymal stem cells plus growth factors from your bone marrow.
For arthritis, these treatments may be used alone or in combination. Dr. Goyle can discuss which approach—or combination—might be most appropriate for your situation.
Compared to Joint Replacement Surgery:
Joint replacement is highly effective for advanced arthritis, providing reliable pain relief and function restoration for appropriate candidates. However, it’s major surgery with significant recovery time, potential complications, and permanent structural changes. Artificial joints also have finite lifespans.
For patients with mild to moderate arthritis, bone marrow stem cell therapy offers a minimally invasive option to explore before committing to replacement. However, it’s not a substitute for joint replacement when replacement is truly indicated—particularly for advanced, bone-on-bone arthritis with severe symptoms.
If your arthritis has progressed to the point where replacement is clearly needed, we’ll be honest about that rather than suggesting regenerative treatment unlikely to provide adequate relief.
The Treatment Process
If you’re determined to be a good candidate and decide to proceed, here’s what the treatment involves.
Consultation and Evaluation:
Before any treatment, Dr. Goyle conducts a thorough evaluation:
- Review of your complete medical history
- Discussion of your arthritis symptoms, when they started, and how they affect you
- Physical examination of the affected joint(s)
- Review of diagnostic imaging (X-rays, MRI) to assess joint condition and arthritis stage
- Assessment of previous treatments and their results
- Discussion of your goals and expectations
- Honest guidance about whether this approach may be appropriate
The BMAC Procedure:
If you proceed with treatment:
Step 1: Bone Marrow Aspiration Using local anesthesia for comfort, Dr. Goyle extracts a small sample of bone marrow from your posterior iliac crest (back of your hip bone). Most patients tolerate this well, describing it as pressure with mild discomfort.
Step 2: Processing Your bone marrow sample is processed immediately in our office using specialized equipment to concentrate the mesenchymal stem cells and growth factors. This happens the same day—your cells are never sent to outside laboratories, stored, or cultured.
Step 3: Image-Guided Injection Using fluoroscopy or ultrasound guidance, Dr. Goyle delivers the concentrated BMAC directly into your arthritic joint. This image guidance ensures accurate placement within the joint space.
The entire procedure typically takes 1-2 hours. Most patients return home the same day.
Post-Procedure Guidelines:
- Some soreness at the aspiration and injection sites is normal
- Avoid anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) as directed—these may interfere with natural processes
- Follow activity guidelines—typically limited weight-bearing initially, then gradual return to normal activities
- Consider physical therapy to support your recovery
- Attend follow-up appointments to monitor your response
- Be patient—responses develop over months, not days
Our Complete Approach to Arthritis
Bone marrow stem cell therapy is one option within our comprehensive approach to arthritis and joint pain. Depending on your condition, Dr. Goyle may also discuss:
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
Another autologous treatment using your own blood, concentrated to increase platelet and growth factor levels. PRP may be used alone or in combination with BMAC for arthritis.
Regenokine® (Autologous Conditioned Serum)
Dr. Goyle is one of only nine physicians in the United States—and the only doctor in Arizona—offering the Regenokine® Program. This innovative approach processes your own blood to create a serum concentrated with anti-inflammatory proteins that target inflammation at its source.
Regenokine® is the treatment professional athletes like the late Kobe Bryant used to manage joint conditions. It works through a different mechanism than bone marrow stem cell therapy—focusing on anti-inflammatory proteins rather than stem cells—and may be particularly appropriate for certain arthritis patients.
MLS M7 Class IV Laser Therapy
Our state-of-the-art therapeutic laser delivers light energy to support the body’s natural processes and address inflammation. This non-invasive treatment can complement regenerative approaches.
Interventional Procedures
For certain situations, other interventional approaches may be appropriate:
- Joint injections for acute symptom management
- Other targeted procedures based on your specific condition
Comprehensive Management
The most effective arthritis management often involves multiple approaches:
- Weight management (reducing joint stress)
- Physical therapy and appropriate exercise
- Activity modification
- Nutritional support
- Regenerative treatments as appropriate
Dr. Goyle will help you develop a comprehensive strategy rather than relying on any single treatment.
Why Choose Integrated Spine, Pain & Wellness
Cleveland Clinic Training
Dr. Ashu Goyle completed his fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic—one of the nation’s premier medical institutions. This rigorous training with world leaders in pain medicine provided expertise in both interventional procedures and regenerative approaches.
Double Board Certification
Dr. Goyle is board-certified in both anesthesiology and interventional pain management, demonstrating advanced competency in precise, image-guided procedures.
Autologous Only
We exclusively use your own bone marrow cells—no adipose tissue, no umbilical cord products, no third-party materials, no lab-cultured cells. You know exactly what you’re receiving.
Image-Guided Precision
All joint injections are performed using fluoroscopy or ultrasound guidance to ensure accurate placement within the joint space.
Exclusive Access
As one of only nine Regenokine® providers nationwide—and the only provider in Arizona—Dr. Goyle offers treatment options unavailable elsewhere in the state.
Honest Evaluation
We don’t treat everyone who asks. We provide thorough evaluation and honest guidance about whether bone marrow stem cell therapy is appropriate for your arthritis—or whether another approach would serve you better.
Recognition
Dr. Goyle has been recognized as a Phoenix Magazine “Top Doc” from 2011-2020, reflecting his commitment to excellent patient care.
Is Bone Marrow Stem Cell Therapy Right for Your Arthritis?
The right decision depends on your individual situation. This approach may be worth exploring if:
- You have mild to moderate osteoarthritis (not end-stage)
- Conservative treatments haven’t provided adequate relief
- You want to explore minimally invasive options before considering joint replacement
- You prefer an approach using your own biological materials
- You have realistic expectations about gradual improvement and variable outcomes
- You’re in reasonably good overall health
The Only Way to Know:
The best way to determine whether bone marrow stem cell therapy is appropriate for your arthritis is a consultation with Dr. Goyle. During this visit, we’ll:
- Review your joint imaging to assess arthritis severity and stage
- Evaluate your symptoms and how they affect your function
- Discuss your treatment history and goals
- Provide honest guidance about your options
- Set realistic expectations if you’re a potential candidate
If bone marrow stem cell therapy isn’t appropriate for your situation, we’ll explain why and recommend alternatives—whether that’s continued conservative care, other regenerative options like Regenokine®, or surgical consultation.
Take the Next Step
Don’t let arthritis joint pain control your quality of life without exploring your options. At Integrated Spine, Pain & Wellness, we provide thorough evaluation and honest guidance to help you make informed decisions about your care.
Whether bone marrow stem cell therapy is right for you, or whether another approach would better serve your needs, the first step is a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Goyle.
Contact Integrated Spine, Pain & Wellness today to schedule your evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Can stem cell therapy cure my arthritis?
No. Bone marrow stem cell therapy cannot cure arthritis or reverse cartilage damage. It may help manage symptoms and support the joint environment, but arthritis is a progressive condition. The goal is to potentially slow progression and reduce discomfort—not to eliminate the disease.
Q2. What type of stem cells do you use for arthritis?
We use only bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC)—stem cells harvested from your own bone marrow, processed fresh in our office, and delivered the same day. We don’t use adipose (fat) tissue, umbilical cord products, amniotic fluid, lab-cultured cells, or any third-party donor materials.
Q3. Why don’t you use umbilical cord or “younger” stem cells?
We focus exclusively on autologous (your own) cells. With your own bone marrow, you know exactly what you’re receiving, there’s no rejection risk, and we can ensure cell viability through same-day processing. Third-party products raise questions about what’s actually in them and whether cells remain viable after processing, storage, and shipping.
Q4. How long until I might notice improvement?
The body’s response develops gradually over weeks to months. Some patients begin noticing changes around 4-8 weeks, with continued response over 3-6 months. This isn’t a quick fix—individual timelines vary significantly, and not all patients experience meaningful improvement.
Q5. Will this help me avoid knee replacement?
For some patients with mild to moderate arthritis, bone marrow stem cell therapy may be worth exploring before committing to joint replacement. However, it’s not a substitute for replacement when replacement is clearly indicated—particularly for advanced, bone-on-bone arthritis. Dr. Goyle will provide honest guidance about what’s realistic for your situation.
Q6. How does this compare to cortisone injections?
Cortisone provides temporary anti-inflammatory effects, typically lasting weeks to months. Bone marrow stem cell therapy delivers your own regenerative cells to the joint environment and works through different mechanisms. The treatments aren’t mutually exclusive—some patients use both at different points in their care.
Q7. What is Regenokine® and is it good for arthritis?
Yes, Regenokine® can be excellent for arthritis. It’s an autologous conditioned serum therapy that concentrates anti-inflammatory proteins from your own blood. Dr. Goyle is one of only nine physicians in the U.S. offering this treatment—and the only provider in Arizona. It’s the approach professional athletes like the late Kobe Bryant used. For some arthritis patients, Regenokine® may be more appropriate than stem cell therapy. Dr. Goyle can discuss which option makes sense for your situation.
Q8. Is the procedure painful?
Most patients tolerate the procedure well with local anesthesia. You may feel pressure during bone marrow aspiration and some discomfort, but significant pain is uncommon. Soreness at the aspiration site typically resolves within 1-2 weeks.
Q9. What are the risks?
Autologous bone marrow stem cell therapy has a favorable safety profile. Common side effects include temporary soreness, swelling, or bruising at aspiration and injection sites. Because we use your own cells, there’s no rejection risk. Rare risks include infection (as with any injection procedure). Dr. Goyle will discuss all potential risks during your consultation.
Q10. Is this covered by insurance?
No, bone marrow stem cell therapy for arthritis is not typically covered by insurance. Treatment requires out-of-pocket payment. During your consultation, Dr. Goyle can discuss specific costs based on your treatment plan.
Dr. Ashu Goyle is the founder of Integrated Spine, Pain & Wellness in Scottsdale, Arizona. Double board-certified in anesthesiology and interventional pain management with fellowship training from the Cleveland Clinic, he specializes in regenerative medicine and interventional pain procedures for musculoskeletal conditions.
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Notes to Nikki:
Summary of Changes Made
| Issue | Original | Revised |
| Stem cell types | Referenced adipose (AD-MSCs), umbilical cord (UC-MSCs), SVF | BMAC only—autologous bone marrow |
| Donor cells | Discussed allogeneic as an option | Explicitly states NO third-party donors |
| Success rates | “60-80% of patients,” “58% improvement” | Removed all specific percentages |
| Duration claims | “12-24 months,” “5-7 years,” “10 years” | Removed; “gradual response over months” |
| Outcome language | “Regenerates,” “repairs,” “restores function” | “May support,” “potential,” “gradual response” |
| Cure claims | Implied disease modification | Clear statement: cannot cure or reverse arthritis |
| Cartilage claims | “Stimulate cartilage repair” | Cannot regrow cartilage |
| Credentials | None | Cleveland Clinic, double board cert, Top Doc |
| Regenokine® | Not mentioned | Added with Kobe Bryant reference, exclusivity |
| MLS Laser | Not mentioned | Added |
| Realistic expectations | Limited | Comprehensive section added |
| Third-party distinction | None | Prominent section explaining difference |
