What it is
Amniotic products are made from tissues connected to pregnancy, such as the amniotic membrane or amniotic fluid, usually donated after a planned birth. They are processed, and sometimes dried, frozen or filtered, before being supplied to clinics.
The established use of amniotic membrane is as a wound covering and on the surface of the eye. Those uses are different from injecting a product into a knee, shoulder, tendon, heel or spine.
Injectable amniotic, umbilical cord, Wharton's jelly and exosome products marketed for joints, pain or 'regeneration' are generally not FDA-approved for those uses, and the FDA has warned the public about unapproved regenerative products. Most contain no living stem cells after processing, so they should not be described as stem-cell treatments, and claims that they regrow cartilage or tissue are not established.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Knee osteoarthritis, shoulder pain, tendonitis, plantar fasciitis and back pain have long been approached with a range of options. These often include activity changes, rest, physical therapy, strengthening and stretching, bracing or supports, and over-the-counter or prescription medicines.
Clinicians may also discuss other in-office options, such as corticosteroid or other injections that have an established regulatory status, imaging to understand what is going on, and, for some people, surgery. What fits depends on the person and the diagnosis.
Many people also look at daily habits, such as movement, sleep, weight, footwear and workplace setup. Because pain has many possible causes, a proper evaluation matters before anyone chooses an approach.
How the right doctor may help
The right doctor may help by first figuring out what is causing your pain. A visit usually involves talking through your history, a physical exam, and sometimes imaging. The aim is to understand the problem before discussing options, and no outcome is guaranteed.
If an amniotic injection comes up, a licensed clinician can explain whether it is appropriate for you, if at all. Only a clinician can decide that after an evaluation. They can also explain how it compares with options that have an established regulatory status.
Good questions to ask: Is this product FDA-approved for my condition? Where does the tissue come from, and how is it processed? What are the risks and possible side effects? What are the alternatives? What is the total cost, and will insurance cover it? Check insurance before treatment, and expect clear answers on recovery time and what to expect afterward.
The whole-person view
Body, mind and stress affect each other. Ongoing pain can disturb sleep, mood and motivation, and stress can make the body feel more tense and sensitive. Looking at the whole person, not only the sore joint, is often part of a thoughtful approach.
Some people find body-based support, such as Somatic Experiences, helpful for the tension and stress that can come with persistent pain. Others value talk therapy through Therapists.plus to help them cope with the strain of long-term discomfort. These are complements to medical care, not replacements for it.
Somatic Experiences: embodiment and movement →Therapists.plus: mind body connection →
Keep in mind
- Licensed professionals should guide your care, especially for serious conditions, injuries or pain that is severe, new or getting worse.
- Injectable amniotic products for joint, tendon and back pain are generally not FDA-approved for those uses, and results are not guaranteed. Ask any provider about FDA status, tissue source, risks, alternatives and total cost.
- Do not delay care or assume an injection will avoid surgery. Only a clinician can decide what is appropriate after an evaluation.
- For emergencies, call 911. In a crisis, call or text the 988 Lifeline.
Guides in this topic
Doctor types
Frequently asked questions
Is an amniotic injection for knee pain FDA-approved?
Generally, no. Injectable amniotic products marketed for knee pain are not FDA-approved for that use, and the FDA has warned the public about unapproved regenerative products. Ask your provider about the specific product's regulatory status.
Does an amniotic injection for knee osteoarthritis regrow cartilage?
No, that claim is not established. Most processed amniotic products contain no living stem cells, and they should not be described as regrowing cartilage or tissue. A licensed clinician can explain what is and is not known.
Can an amniotic injection help shoulder pain or tendonitis?
Marketing often suggests it can, but these uses are generally not FDA-approved and results are not guaranteed. A doctor can evaluate the cause of your pain and discuss options with a known track record.
What is the recovery time after an amniotic injection?
It varies, and only your provider can tell you what to expect for your situation. Ask what activity limits may apply, what side effects to watch for, and when to call the office.
How much does an amniotic injection cost?
Costs vary widely by clinic, and because these products are often not FDA-approved for joint or pain uses, insurance may not cover them. Ask for the total cost in writing and check with your insurer before treatment.
What questions should I ask before an amniotic injection for back pain or plantar fasciitis?
Ask whether the product is FDA-approved for your condition, where the tissue comes from, what the risks are, what alternatives exist, and what the total cost is. Also ask how your diagnosis was made and what else could be tried first.
Educational resource. Amniotic Doctors shares general information and connects people with independent doctors. It is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk with a licensed professional about your health.