What to Know About Stem Cell Therapy and Regenerative Medicine for Joint Pain and Injuries

Elixir and Wellness – Scottsdale, Arizona

A tennis player in a white outfit prepares to return a shot on a sunlit court surrounded by lush greenery and tall palm trees.

If you’re struggling with joint pain, arthritis, or a lingering sports injury, you might be searching for a way to heal without the long recovery time of surgery or dependence on medications. At Elixir and Wellness in Scottsdale, Arizona, we specialize in regenerative therapies—like stem cell therapy—to support your body’s natural ability to repair and restore itself.

This innovative approach has become a preferred option for active individuals, athletes, and anyone looking to maintain mobility and avoid more invasive treatments.

What Is Stem Cell Therapy?

Stem cell therapy is a form of regenerative medicine that uses powerful, undifferentiated cells—called mesenchymal stem cells—to help regenerate damaged tissues like cartilage, tendon, and bone. These cells have the unique ability to reduce inflammation and stimulate healing in joints that have been worn down by injury or chronic conditions.

At our Scottsdale clinic, we commonly use this therapy to treat:

• Knee osteoarthritis and cartilage damage

• Rotator cuff and shoulder injuries

• Hip joint pain and labral tears

• Elbow tendonitis (tennis/golfer’s elbow)

• Chronic joint inflammation and limited range of motion

  
  

Treatments are minimally invasive and are typically performed in-office, with most patients returning to daily activities within a few days.

How Does It Work?

We use ethically sourced mesenchymal stem cells—often from umbilical cord tissue—and inject them directly into the affected joint using precise ultrasound guidance. Once administered, the cells help modulate inflammation and initiate repair at a cellular level.

Many patients report pain relief and improved flexibility within a few weeks, with continued progress over several months as the body rebuilds the tissue naturally.

Why Choose This Over Surgery?

Stem cell therapy is rapidly gaining popularity because it offers significant advantages over conventional orthopedic surgery:

• No incisions or general anesthesia

• Minimal to no downtime—most patients are up and moving the same day

• No prescription painkillers required

• Preserves your natural tissue rather than removing it

• Fewer complications and faster recovery

• Customizable approach—can be combined with acupuncture, red light therapy, and exosomes for greater effect

  
  

For many, it’s a proactive way to treat the root cause of pain while staying active and avoiding the risks associated with invasive procedures.

Do I Need to Travel Abroad for Stem Cell Therapy?

It’s a common myth that you need to leave the U.S. to get “real” stem cell therapy. While some international clinics advertise higher cell counts or broader applications, the same types of mesenchymal stem cells used abroad are available right here in the United States—including at our clinic in Scottsdale.

The difference lies in how treatments are regulated. U.S. clinics, including ours, must follow strict FDA-compliant protocols for safety, sterility, and ethical sourcing. This means you're getting high-quality care with proper oversight, rather than risking treatment at an offshore facility that may lack long-term follow-up or accountability.

In fact, when you factor in international travel, lodging, and potential risks, the cost of going abroad is often comparable—if not more—than receiving therapy locally with trusted providers.

Is Stem Cell Therapy Covered by Insurance?

Currently, stem cell therapy is not covered by insurance. However, it is eligible for Health Savings Accounts (HSA)and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), which many of our patients use to help offset costs.

While considered an elective treatment, patients often view it as a worthwhile investment to avoid surgery, reduce chronic pain, and preserve long-term joint health.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon will I feel results?

Most patients notice improvement in 2–4 weeks, with continued healing for up to six months.

Does the procedure hurt?

Discomfort is minimal. Some experience soreness similar to a workout for 24–48 hours.

How many treatments will I need?

One treatment is often sufficient for mild to moderate issues. For more advanced degeneration, a customized series may be recommended.

Can it be combined with other therapies?

Absolutely. We often enhance regenerative results with acupuncture, exosomes, and red light therapy for a multi-layered healing plan.

Experience Trusted Regenerative Medicine in Scottsdale

At Elixir and Wellness, we’re proud to offer modern regenerative solutions within a supportive, whole-body care environment. Whether you’re looking to stay active, recover from an injury, or explore alternatives to surgery, we’re here to help you move and feel your best—naturally.

📞 Call us at 480-590-5693

📅 Book a free 15-minute consultation to speak with our team and find out if regenerative therapy is right for you.