Regenerative medicine has grown quickly, and with growth has come variation in quality. Some clinics deliver careful, evidence-informed care; others lean on marketing. These eight questions will help you separate the two before you commit your time, your money, and your body.
Ask for the names and qualifications of the people who will evaluate you, prepare the treatment, and perform the injection. A clinic should answer comfortably and specifically. If you cannot get a clear answer, treat that as a red flag.
Your own bone marrow or fat tissue? Your own blood (PRP)? Or a manufactured product from a third party? Autologous treatments use your own cells, which carries the lowest immune risk. Be especially cautious with umbilical cord, amniotic, or other donor-derived products sold for unapproved uses.
The honest answer is that most regenerative treatments offered today are not FDA-approved for their intended uses. That is not necessarily disqualifying, but the clinic should say it plainly, explain the regulatory status, and never imply approval that does not exist.
Ask for specifics: what studies, for what population, with what results. A good clinic distinguishes between established, developing, and weak evidence. Be wary of anyone who claims their treatment works for everything.
No legitimate medical treatment is risk-free. Expect a genuine discussion of injection-site pain, infection, the possibility of harm from unapproved products, and what the clinic does if something goes wrong.
Get the full picture in writing: evaluation fees, the treatment itself, follow-up visits, and any add-ons. Most regenerative treatments are not covered by insurance, so confirm coverage and payment expectations up front.
Recovery guidance, follow-up appointments, and a clear contact for questions are part of good care, not an afterthought. Ask who you can call with concerns after your procedure.
If a clinic guarantees outcomes, walk away. Honest care means doing your best with the best evidence and being upfront that results vary by person, condition, and circumstance.
A note from the clinic
At Aloha Stem Cell in Honolulu, we are happy to answer every one of these questions before you book. Call our team at (808) 593-2525 or send a message through the contact page, and start the conversation with zero pressure.
“The AAOS believes that orthopaedic surgeons need to be aware that even though a product is marketed in the United States, having undergone regulatory review with the FDA, there may be lack of data or uncertainty around the long-term safety and efficacy profile of these products.”
Our team is happy to listen to your story, answer your questions, and help you decide whether a consultation makes sense. There is no pressure and no obligation.
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