Quick answer
For knee osteoarthritis, a 2026 meta-analysis of 28 randomized trials found that mesenchymal stem cell injections reduced pain and improved function compared with control injections, without clear cartilage regrowth on MRI. In a trial with Wharton's jelly stem cells, two doses reduced pain at 12 months more than hyaluronic acid. At Longevity Clinic, the doctor reviews your MRI or X-rays before you travel, and the application of stem cells and exosomes takes about 45 minutes.
Knee pain from osteoarthritis, old sports injuries or years of physical work is one of the main reasons people look into regenerative medicine. Here is what the trials show and how treatment works at Longevity Clinic in Veracruz.
What happens in the joint, at the cellular level
In osteoarthritis and chronic injuries, persistent inflammation keeps damaging cartilage and tendons long after the original injury. Mesenchymal stem cells release growth factors and anti-inflammatory signals that modulate that inflammation and protect the cells of the tissue. Exosomes are one of the ways those signals travel between cells.
What the trials show
- A 2026 meta-analysis of 28 randomized trials found less pain and better function with stem cell injections than with control injections, but no clear cartilage regrowth on MRI.
- In a randomized trial with Wharton's jelly stem cells, the same tissue source used in our protocols, two doses reduced pain at 12 months much more than hyaluronic acid.
Read the full evidence summary in stem cells for knee osteoarthritis.
Our protocol
The doctor designs a protocol with mesenchymal stem cells from Wharton's jelly and exosomes, applied into the affected joint or tissue. The product comes from Stem Biotech, a COFEPRIS-licensed laboratory, with a certificate of analysis for every batch. See our products.
How it works if you live in the U.S.
- Send your imaging by WhatsApp or email.
- Free review and protocol. If an injection isn't the right option, for example in advanced arthritis, we tell you before you travel.
- One trip for an application of about 45 minutes. United flies nonstop from Houston to Veracruz.
- Remote follow-up, ideally together with your physical therapist at home.
Studies cited
Awad G, et al. Clinical Rheumatology
Efficacy and safety of intra-articular mesenchymal stem cell-based therapies in knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Reported result: Less pain than controls (visual analogue scale, mean difference −1.67) and better scores on the KOOS questionnaire for daily activities (+12.84), sport (+11.76) and symptoms (+15.16). No significant differences in WOMAC or cartilage structure on MRI. More injection-site pain (RR 2.04) and joint swelling (RR 3.39).
Matas J, et al. Stem Cells Translational Medicine
Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stromal Cells (MSCs) for Knee Osteoarthritis: Repeated MSC Dosing Is Superior to a Single MSC Dose and to Hyaluronic Acid in a Controlled Randomized Phase I/II Trial
Reported result: At 12 months, two doses of Wharton's jelly stem cells gave less pain than hyaluronic acid (pain scale 2.4 vs 22.1). Only the cell groups improved significantly in pain and function. No serious adverse events and no MRI differences.
Xiao Z, et al. Medicine (Baltimore)
Effects of the umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Reported result: Umbilical cord stem cells were associated with a lower WOMAC index (mean difference −25.85) and a better Lysholm score (+18.33) than control.
Frequently asked questions
Who may be a candidate?
People with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis or chronic tendon and joint pain who still have pain despite exercise, physical therapy and weight management. Advanced bone-on-bone arthritis, a locked knee or a complete ligament tear usually need an orthopedic surgeon. The doctor tells you after reviewing your imaging, before you travel.
What should I send for the free review?
Your knee MRI or X-rays with the radiologist's report, ideally from the last 12 months, notes from your orthopedist, how long you've had pain, what makes it worse and which treatments you've tried.
Can I fly home the next day?
Most people can. The knee may be sore or swollen for one or two days, so plan an easy day after the application and keep moving gently. Your physician gives you written aftercare instructions.
Is it the same as a knee replacement or surgery?
No. It is an injection that aims to reduce pain and improve function. It does not replace surgery when surgery is indicated, and it does not rebuild a joint that is worn out.