What it is
Amniotic tissue comes from the placenta and the sac that surrounds a baby during pregnancy. It is donated, usually after a planned birth, and then processed by tissue banks or manufacturers into different forms, such as sheets, powders, or liquids.
The established, well-understood use of amniotic membrane is as a covering for wounds and on the surface of the eye. In those uses, a clinician places the tissue directly where it is needed.
Injectable amniotic, umbilical cord, Wharton's jelly and exosome products are marketed for joints, pain, hair, skin and 'regeneration.' These products 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.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Older adults with joint pain, slow-healing wounds or long-lasting discomfort have traditionally worked with their primary care clinician first. From there, they may be referred to specialists for an evaluation.
Common approaches for joint and muscle problems have included activity changes, physical therapy, bracing, medicines and, in some cases, injections or surgery. Wound care has traditionally focused on cleaning, dressings, pressure relief, blood-flow and blood-sugar management, and regular monitoring.
Amniotic products have been added to some of these conversations over time. Whether any of them is appropriate depends on the person, the condition and the specific product. A licensed clinician makes that decision after an evaluation.
How the right doctor may help
The right provider may help by listening to your history, examining the area that concerns you and explaining your options in everyday language. Orthopedics and sports medicine doctors often focus on joints and movement. Wound care clinicians focus on skin that is slow to heal. Pain management doctors look at long-lasting pain from several angles. Whether any of them can help depends on your situation.
A first visit generally includes questions about your health, medicines and daily life. It may include a physical exam and sometimes imaging or tests. Caregivers are often welcome to come along, take notes and help ask questions. You can also ask for written information to review at home.
If an amniotic product comes up, consider asking: Is this product FDA-approved for my condition? Where does the tissue come from? What are the risks? What are the alternatives, including options that don't involve a product? What is the total cost, and have we checked my insurance before treatment? A good provider will welcome these questions and answer them clearly.
The whole-person view
Body, mind and stress affect each other. Ongoing pain can disrupt sleep, mood and confidence, and worry or loneliness can make pain feel stronger. For older adults and the people who care for them, looking at the whole picture, including rest, movement, relationships and daily routines, can be as important as looking at one sore joint or wound.
Some people find that body-based support, such as the approaches listed by Somatic Experiences, helps them feel more at ease in their bodies. Others find talk therapy through Therapists.plus useful for coping with the stress of pain, illness or caregiving. These are options to consider alongside medical care, not replacements for it.
Somatic Experiences: nervous system regulation →Somatic Experiences: embodiment and movement →Therapists.plus: mind body connection →
Keep in mind
- Medicare and other insurers often do not cover injectable amniotic products for joints or pain, and coverage varies. Ask the provider and your plan in writing before treatment.
- Check that anyone you see is licensed. Providers.plus lists licensed providers, and you can also ask for a provider's credentials directly.
- Be cautious of ads, seminars or free-lunch events that promise results or say a product 'regrows' tissue or lets you avoid surgery. No treatment can be guaranteed.
- Licensed professionals should guide your care. For an emergency, call 911. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988.
Doctors who often help
Get matched privatelyFrequently asked questions
What are amniotic treatments?
Amniotic treatments use tissue from the placenta or amniotic sac, which is donated and processed into different forms. The established uses are as a wound covering and on the surface of the eye. Other uses, such as injections for joints or pain, are generally not FDA-approved.
Does Medicare cover amniotic injections?
Coverage is often limited or unavailable for injectable amniotic products used for joints or pain, because they are generally not FDA-approved for those uses. Coverage can differ for wound care and depends on your plan and situation. Ask your provider's office and Medicare or your plan about coverage before any treatment.
Are amniotic injections FDA-approved?
Injectable amniotic, umbilical cord, Wharton's jelly and exosome products marketed for joints, pain, hair, skin or regeneration are generally not FDA-approved for those uses. The FDA has warned the public about unapproved regenerative products. Ask any provider about a product's exact FDA status.
Are amniotic products stem-cell treatments?
No, they should not be described that way. Most amniotic products contain no living stem cells after processing. Be wary of any claim that a product regrows cartilage or tissue.
How can I find a safe provider for amniotic treatments?
Start by choosing a licensed clinician, such as an orthopedic, wound care or pain management doctor, and ask about their training and experience. Ask about the product's FDA status, tissue source, risks, alternatives and total cost. Providers.plus lists licensed providers, and your primary care doctor can also be a good source of referrals.
How can caregivers help with decisions about amniotic treatments?
Caregivers can attend appointments, take notes, and help ask questions about risks, alternatives and costs. They can also help check insurance coverage and licensing before treatment. Taking time to decide, and getting a second opinion if you wish, is always reasonable.
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.