Struggling with knee pain can affect every part of your life—from walking up stairs to enjoying your favorite hobbies. And if you’ve tried physical therapy, rest, or medications with no relief, you may be wondering: Should I get a knee replacement or try stem cell therapy?
You’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions we get at PointHealth, and it’s a smart one to ask. Both options can help, but they’re not the same. This guide will break down the pros and cons of stem cell therapy vs knee replacement, so you can make an informed, confident decision about your health.
Understanding the Basics: What Are These Treatments?
What Is Knee Replacement Surgery?
Knee replacement surgery, or knee arthroplasty, is a type of major surgery that involves removing the damaged parts of the knee joint and replacing them with artificial implants. It’s often recommended for people with advanced arthritisor severe joint damage.
This surgical procedure typically requires:
General anesthesia
A hospital stay
Several weeks of recovery
Physical therapy
Possible risks like blood clots or infection
It’s effective for many, but not everyone is comfortable with such an invasive option.
What Is Stem Cell Therapy?
Stem cell therapy is a minimally invasive procedure that uses the patient’s stem cells—usually from bone marrow or adipose tissue (fat)—to support the body’s natural ability to heal. These mesenchymal stem cells are injected into the damaged knee joint, where they help promote healing, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain.
No hospital stay. No general anesthesia. And for many patients, no downtime at all.
Comparing the Two: Stem Cell vs Knee Replacement
Let’s look at both side by side:
Feature
Stem Cell Therapy
Knee Replacement Surgery
Invasiveness
Non-surgical or minimally invasive
Major surgical procedure
Anesthesia
Local anesthesia
General anesthesia
Recovery Time
Days to weeks
Months
Downtime
Minimal
Extensive
Risk
Low risk of allergic reactions or complications
Higher risk of infection, clots, or implant failure
Pain Relief
Gradual, significant pain relief in most patients
Often immediate, but comes with longer recovery
Reversibility
Can still have surgery later if needed
Permanent joint replacement
Goal
Reduce pain and restore function naturally
Replace the damaged joint completely
When Stem Cell Therapy Might Be the Better Choice
Many patients dealing with chronic knee pain, knee osteoarthritis, or degenerative conditions prefer to avoid knee replacement surgery if possible—and for good reason.
Stem cell treatment may be right for you if:
You’re experiencing knee pain that hasn’t responded to other treatments.
You want to delay or avoid knee surgery.
You’re not a good candidate for surgery due to other health concerns.
You’re looking for a non-invasive alternative with a low risk of complications.
You want to try regenerative medicine before turning to surgery.
And here’s the best part—most patients report reduced pain, increased mobility, and a return to normal activitieswithin just a few weeks.
When Knee Replacement Might Be Necessary
Knee replacement may be your best option if:
You’ve tried everything else and are still in pain.
Imaging shows severe damage to your knee cartilage or bone.
Your condition limits your daily activities or sleep.
You’ve had stem cell therapy before with little to no improvement.
You’re mentally and physically prepared for surgery and the healing process.
That said, it’s always important to weigh the potential complications, recovery time, and insurance coverage.
What the Research Says
Studies and systematic reviews have shown promising results for both options. For stem cell injections, many clinical trials have noted:
Improvements in joint function
Pain relief lasting up to 12 months or longer
Regeneration of damaged tissue
Higher patient satisfaction compared to traditional treatments
For knee joint replacement, research supports long-term relief for many—but it often requires revision surgery years down the road, especially in younger patients.
Real Patient Outcomes: What to Expect
With Stem Cell Therapy:
Shorter recovery time
Gradual improvement
Natural healing process
Return to normal activities quickly
With Knee Replacement Surgery:
More immediate relief
Longer downtime
Physical therapy required
Long-term joint implant
Both can result in improved mobility, but stem cell therapy focuses on healing, not replacing.
Why Choose PointHealth?
At PointHealth, our approach is simple: match the right treatment options to the right patient. We don’t believe in cookie-cutter care. Our team of specialists—including orthopedic surgeons and regenerative medicine experts—has extensive experience with both knee surgery and stem cell therapy.
We guide you through every step with clear communication and personalized plans tailored to your knee problems, lifestyle, and goals.
Still Not Sure Which Option is Right for You?
No pressure—we’re here to help.
Whether you’re leaning toward stem cell therapy, considering knee joint replacement, or just want a second opinion, our team is here to answer your questions and help you feel confident in your next step.
👉 Schedule your consultation today at pointhealthclinic.com
Your knees carry you through life. Let us help you take the next step toward pain-free living.
