What it is
Amniotic injections are products made from tissue connected to pregnancy, such as amniotic fluid or membrane, that are processed and then injected, often into a joint or sore area. Some clinics also offer related products made from umbilical cord tissue or Wharton's jelly, and products described as exosomes.
The established medical use of amniotic tissue is different. Amniotic membrane is used as a covering for wounds and on the surface of the eye. That is not the same as injecting a processed product into a joint, the skin or the scalp.
Injectable amniotic, umbilical cord, Wharton's jelly and exosome products 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. Most of these products contain no living stem cells after processing, so they are not accurately described as stem-cell treatments.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Joint pain and injury have traditionally been approached in many ways, including rest, activity changes, physical therapy, medications, injections that a clinician selects, and sometimes surgery. Which of these fits a person is a decision for a licensed clinician after an evaluation.
Regenerative medicine clinics have offered amniotic and similar products as another option people ask about. Because many of these products are not FDA-approved for these uses, the information about their safety and effectiveness may be limited or uneven.
Side effects reported or discussed with any injection can include pain, swelling or redness at the site, and the possibility of infection or an allergic or other reaction. Concerns can also include how a product was sourced, handled and processed. A provider can explain which risks apply to a specific product and person.
How the right doctor may help
A doctor in orthopedics and sports medicine or a regenerative medicine clinic may be able to listen to your history, examine the area and talk about what could be causing your symptoms. They may also explain a range of options, including ones that do not involve injections.
If an amniotic product comes up, you can ask about its FDA status, its tissue source, how it is processed, and what the known and unknown risks are. It is also fair to ask what alternatives exist, what could happen if you wait, and who to contact if you have a problem after treatment.
You can also ask for the total cost in writing and check with your insurance before treatment, since unapproved products are often not covered. A good visit leaves you feeling informed and free to take time, ask for a second opinion, or decline.
The whole-person view
Body, mind and stress affect each other. Ongoing pain can disrupt sleep, mood and daily activity, and worry or stress can make discomfort feel stronger. Looking at the whole person, including movement, rest, stress and support, can be part of understanding symptoms.
Somatic Experiences offers body-based support that some people explore when stress and tension are part of the picture. Therapists.plus connects people with talk therapy for coping with pain, worry or difficult decisions. These are additional resources and do not replace a medical evaluation.
Somatic Experiences: nervous system regulation →Somatic Experiences: embodiment and movement →Therapists.plus: mind body connection →
Keep in mind
- Only a licensed clinician can decide what is appropriate for you after an evaluation, and licensed professionals should guide your care.
- Many injectable amniotic and related products are not FDA-approved for joint, pain, hair or skin uses, so ask about the product's FDA status, tissue source, risks, alternatives and total cost.
- Results are never guaranteed, and an injection should not be assumed to replace or avoid other care, including surgery.
- For emergencies such as trouble breathing, a spreading rash, high fever or severe pain after an injection, call 911. If you are in a crisis, call or text 988.
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Frequently asked questions
What are the side effects of amniotic injections?
Reported concerns with injections in general include pain, swelling or redness at the site, infection, and allergic or other reactions. Because many amniotic injection products are not FDA-approved for joint or pain uses, less may be known about their risks. Ask a licensed provider about the specific product and your personal risk.
Are amniotic injections FDA-approved?
Generally, no, not for joints, pain, hair, skin or regeneration. Amniotic membrane as a wound covering and on the eye surface is the established use. The FDA has warned the public about unapproved regenerative products, so ask any provider about a product's status.
Are amniotic injections stem-cell treatments?
No, they should not be described that way. Most amniotic products contain no living stem cells after processing. Be cautious if a clinic uses that language, and ask what the product actually contains.
Can amniotic injections regrow cartilage?
There is no established basis to say they regrow cartilage or tissue, and no provider can promise it. Claims like this are one reason to ask about FDA status and to seek a second opinion.
What should I ask before getting an amniotic injection?
Ask about the product's FDA status, where the tissue came from, the risks, the alternatives and the total cost. Also check with your insurance before treatment. A trustworthy provider should welcome these questions.
When should I get help after an injection?
Contact your provider if you notice increasing pain, swelling, warmth, redness, fever or anything that worries you. For an emergency, such as trouble breathing or severe symptoms, call 911.
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.