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Stem Cell Therapy by Condition: What the Evidence Says (2026)

About this guide: We are independent patient researchers, not medical doctors. We review peer-reviewed literature (PubMed), government trial registries and regulators’ guidance, plus documented patient reports, to help you navigate clinic options and spot predatory marketing. How we research.
Clinical treatments section. These guides cover medical stem cell procedures (injections, infusions, transplants) and clinical trials. Looking for at-home, non-invasive wellness options instead? See At-Home & Non-Invasive Support — kept separate because it is not medical treatment.

Stem cell therapy is promoted for dozens of conditions, but the evidence differs enormously. For a few blood disorders it is an established, approved treatment. For most other conditions it is still being tested — or remains unproven. Use this page to see where each condition stands, then read the full guide.

How to read the evidence levels: Approved = an approved product or established treatment exists for specific uses · Promising = encouraging results in human trials, not yet proven · Early research = mostly small or early studies · Unproven = no convincing human benefit; avoid outside trials.

Condition guides

ConditionEvidence levelRecruiting trials*
Knee Arthritis (Osteoarthritis)Promising – in clinical trials22
Back Pain & Degenerative / Bulging DiscPromising – in clinical trials2
Shoulder – Rotator Cuff & Labrum TearsEarly research7
Hip Arthritis & Labral TearsEarly research4
Sports Injuries – Tendons, ACL, Meniscus, Tennis ElbowEarly research8
Peripheral NeuropathyEarly research9
Autism (Autism Spectrum Disorder)Unproven / not recommended outside trials9
Spinal Cord InjuryEarly research8
Multiple Sclerosis (MS)Approved for specific uses15
ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis / Motor Neurone Disease)Unproven / not recommended outside trials11
Stroke (Ischaemic Stroke Recovery)Promising – in clinical trials18
Alzheimer’s Disease & DementiaEarly research13
Hair Loss (Androgenetic Alopecia)Early research5
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)Promising – in clinical trials9
COPD & EmphysemaUnproven / not recommended outside trials12
Heart FailurePromising – in clinical trials11
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)Early research9
Tinnitus & Hearing LossUnproven / not recommended outside trials4

*Recruiting or soon-to-recruit stem cell studies on ClinicalTrials.gov, checked 4 October 2026.

More condition guides

Before You Pay: The Stem Cell Clinic Checklist – free 9-page PDF
Free patient guide

Before You Pay: The Stem Cell Clinic Checklist

  • 20 questions every legitimate clinic should answer in writing
  • A red-flag scorecard to spot unregulated marketing
  • Realistic 2026 cost ranges: US, Mexico, Panama & Europe
  • How to find a registered clinical trial

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Not sure where to start? Read what stem cell therapy is, compare types of treatment and check what is legal where you live.

Last reviewed October 2026. For general information only — not medical advice. We do not endorse any clinic or product. Always consult a qualified, licensed healthcare professional. See our medical disclaimer and editorial policy.