What it is
An umbilical cord tissue injection uses material from donated umbilical cord tissue, which is typically collected after a planned birth and then processed by a tissue supplier. Some products include Wharton's jelly, the gel-like substance inside the cord. They are usually sold as liquid or powder preparations that a clinician injects.
Processing varies from one supplier to another. Most of these products are filtered, preserved or frozen, and most contain no living stem cells by the time they reach a clinic. For that reason, calling them stem-cell treatments is not accurate, and they should not be described as regrowing cartilage or tissue.
Regulatory status matters here. Injectable umbilical cord and Wharton's jelly products promoted for joints, pain, hair, skin or 'regeneration' are generally not FDA-approved for those uses, and the FDA has warned the public about unapproved regenerative products. Amniotic membrane used as a wound covering or on the eye surface is a different, more established use. A licensed clinician decides what is appropriate after an evaluation.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Joint, tendon and skin concerns have long been approached through a range of conventional options. These often include rest, activity changes, physical therapy, medications, bracing, and in some cases procedures or surgery. Which of these is considered depends on the person and the evaluation.
Over the past years, some clinics have added biologic injections, including products from umbilical cord tissue, to the conversation. Practices and opinions differ. Some clinicians are cautious because of limited approval and uncertainty about what a given product contains, while others discuss them as an option within a clinic's own policies.
Because this area is evolving, the same product may be described very differently by different sources. Marketing claims can run ahead of what is established, so many people find it useful to ask for plain answers about approval status, sourcing and risks rather than relying on advertising.
How the right doctor may help
The right provider, such as an orthopedic or sports medicine doctor, a dermatology professional or a regenerative medicine clinician, may help you understand your situation before any product is discussed. A visit generally involves a conversation about your history and goals, a physical exam, and sometimes imaging or other tests, all at the clinician's discretion.
A good provider may also explain the full range of options, including ones that do not involve injections, and help you weigh them. They may be able to tell you whether a product is FDA-approved, what it is made from and what is known and unknown about it. No provider can promise a result.
Helpful questions to bring: What is the FDA status of this product for my concern? Where does the tissue come from, and how is it processed? Does it contain living cells? What are the risks and possible side effects? What are the alternatives, including waiting or doing nothing? What is the total cost, and will insurance cover any part of it? It is wise to check with your insurer before treatment.
The whole-person view
Body, mind and stress affect each other. Ongoing pain or skin changes can wear on sleep, mood and daily activity, and stress or worry can in turn make discomfort feel stronger. Looking at the whole person, including movement, rest, relationships and stress, can give a fuller picture than any single procedure.
Some people explore body-based support such as Somatic Experiences to build awareness of how stress is held in the body, and others find talk therapy through Therapists.plus helpful for coping with long-term health concerns. These are optional supports that can sit alongside the care a licensed provider recommends, and no approach is better than another for everyone.
Somatic Experiences: nervous system regulation →Somatic Experiences: embodiment and movement →Therapists.plus: mind body connection →
Keep in mind
- Many umbilical cord tissue injections for joints, pain, hair, skin or regeneration are generally not FDA-approved for those uses, and the FDA has warned the public about unapproved regenerative products.
- Results are never guaranteed, and these products should not be assumed to replace other care or to avoid surgery.
- Only a licensed clinician can decide what is appropriate for you after an evaluation, and licensed professionals should guide care for any serious condition.
- For an emergency call 911; if you are in crisis call or text the 988 Lifeline.
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Frequently asked questions
What is an umbilical cord tissue injection?
An umbilical cord tissue injection is a preparation made from donated umbilical cord tissue, sometimes including Wharton's jelly, that a clinician injects. Processing varies by supplier, and most products contain no living stem cells. Ask a provider exactly what a specific product is.
Is umbilical cord tissue injection FDA-approved?
For joint pain, hair, skin and 'regeneration' uses, these injections are generally not FDA-approved. The FDA has warned the public about unapproved regenerative products. Ask your provider about the specific product's FDA status.
Are umbilical cord injections stem-cell treatments?
No, they should not be described that way. Most processed cord tissue products contain no living stem cells by the time they are used. Ask the provider what the product actually contains.
Do umbilical cord tissue injections regrow cartilage?
There is no established basis to say they regrow cartilage or other tissue, and no provider can promise that. Be cautious about any clinic that makes such claims. A licensed clinician can explain what is and is not known.
What are the risks of an umbilical cord tissue injection?
As with any injection, possible risks can include pain, swelling, infection or a reaction, and unapproved products may have less-known risks. A provider can explain the risks that apply to you. Ask about them before deciding.
What should I ask before getting an umbilical cord tissue injection?
Ask about the product's FDA status, its tissue source, how it is processed, the risks, the alternatives and the total cost. Also check your insurance before treatment. A trustworthy provider should welcome these questions.
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.