What to Know Before You Choose a Clinic to Avoid Stem Cell Scams

Stem cell therapy has become a widely discussed option in orthopedic care. While it shows promise in helping restore joint function and improve mobility, there's also been a rise in clinics offering misleading or unsafe stem cell procedures.

At Interventional Orthopedics of Washington (IOW), we believe patients deserve transparent, ethical, and science-based care. This guide will help you understand what stem cell fraud looks like and how to choose a provider who puts your safety and recovery first.

What Is Stem Cell Fraud?

Stem cell fraud refers to clinics or providers making false claims, offering unapproved therapies, or performing procedures without proper training or tools. These treatments are often expensive and risky.

Watch for red flags like:

• Promises to "cure" many unrelated conditions

• No clear information about what's being injected

• Injections done without imaging guidance

• Providers who are not licensed physicians

• High-pressure sales tactics or requests for large upfront payments

If you're unsure whether a clinic's offering is legitimate, start by learning how regenerative medicine really works.

How Safe Stem Cell Therapy Should Work

When used responsibly, stem cell therapy uses your own bone marrow-derived cells to support joint health and healing. At IOW, we follow best practices to ensure safety and effective results.

Watch for red flags like:

• A full medical evaluation to determine if you're a good candidate

• Use of your own cells (not donor tissue or unregulated products)

• Board-certified physicians performing the procedure

• Real-time imaging (ultrasound or fluoroscopy) to guide the injection

• Clear communication about realistic outcomes and timelines

Learn more about how we perform image-guided injections to ensure accuracy and safety.

Why Choose IOW for Stem Cell Therapy in Bellevue?

At Interventional Orthopedics of Washington, we're committed to ethical care, advanced diagnostics, and precision-based treatments. We don't make marketing claims, we focus on real results.

Our approach includes:

• Personalized care plans tailored to your condition

• Evidence-backed procedures, including PRP therapy and bone marrow stem cell injections

• Clear education so you understand every step

Led by Dr. Otoño Silva, our team combines deep expertise with compassion to help patients move better, feel stronger, and avoid unnecessary surgery.

Real Results Depend on The Right Provider

We've seen patients come to us after spending thousands on unregulated treatments elsewhere. One such patient had received stem cell injections from a non-medical clinic with no imaging guidance and no relief. After a full evaluation at IOW, Dr. Silva recommended PRP, a more appropriate solution for the patient's condition.

The outcome? Within weeks, the patient saw improved mobility and reduced pain thanks to a science-backed procedure delivered with precision.

This is why experience and technique matter. Explore how we personalize care in our joint preservation treatments.

How to Spot and Avoid Stem Cell Scams

Before agreeing to any regenerative treatment, ask these questions:

• Who is performing the procedure? Look for board-certified physicians with training in musculoskeletal and regenerative care.

• What's being injected? If the provider can't explain the source of the cells or talks about “amniotic” or “exosome” injections without evidence, that's a red flag.

• Is imaging used? Ask if they use ultrasound or fluoroscopy. This ensures the injection is going exactly where it's needed.

• Do they promise too much? Be wary of phrases like “permanent cure” or claims that sound too good to be true.

• Do you feel pressured? You should have space to ask questions and consider your options without pressure.

To learn more about safe, evidence-based alternatives, visit our article on regenerative treatments you can trust.

What Stem Cell Research Actually Supports

The science behind stem cells is evolving. While bone marrow-derived stem cells have shown promise in improving joint structure and mobility, no treatment is a universal cure. Results depend on:

• Your individual health and joint condition

• The skill and training of your provider

• Whether imaging is used during treatment

The best results happen when stem cells are used appropriately as part of a larger care strategy that includes precision diagnostics, guided rehab, and lifestyle support.

FAQs About Stem Cell Therapy at IOW

Q: Is stem cell therapy safe? 

Yes, when performed by a licensed provider using autologous (your own) cells and imaging guidance.

Q: Can it cure arthritis? 

No. But it may help manage symptoms, improve function, and delay surgery.

Q: What if I'm not a candidate? 

We offer alternatives like PRP or precision diagnostics.

Q: Do you accept insurance? 

We're out-of-network by design to offer longer visits, more options, and cutting-edge care.

Final Takeaway: Safe Regenerative Therapies Start With the Right Team

Stem cell therapy can be a helpful tool in orthopedic care but only when done with transparency, skill, and medical oversight. At IOW, we provide:

• Expert evaluation to help you decide if stem cell or PRP therapy is right for you

• Image-guided procedures using your own cells

• Long-term support for recovery and joint function

If you're ready to explore your options, schedule a consultation with our team and learn how regenerative therapies can help you move with confidence without falling for the hype.