When arthritis settles into your feet or ankles, even simple movements can feel stiff, sore, and draining. Many people reach a point where traditional treatments don’t bring enough relief, but they’re not ready for surgery. That’s where stem cell injections start to get attention.
This approach uses your body’s own healing cells to help repair damaged tissue, calm inflammation, and improve mobility over time. While it’s not magic or an instant fix, it’s becoming a promising option for people looking for longer-lasting relief.
At Sole Foot and Ankle in Valparaiso, patients often ask whether stem cell therapy can help them walk more comfortably again. This guide breaks down what it is, how it works, who it helps, and what you can realistically expect.
What Is Stem Cell Therapy for Foot and Ankle Arthritis?
Stem cell therapy is a regenerative treatment that uses special cells from your own body; commonly taken from bone marrow or fat tissue. These cells have the ability to develop into various types of tissue, which is why they’re often used for joint and tendon problems.
When injected into an arthritic joint, the goal is to:
- Reduce inflammation
- Support tissue repair
- Improve mobility
- Slow further joint damage
This makes it especially appealing for people dealing with chronic foot and ankle arthritis who want something more than temporary pain relief.
How Stem Cell Injections Work
Here’s a simple breakdown of the process:
- Collection
A small sample of your bone marrow or fat tissue is collected using local anesthesia. - Processing
The stem cells are separated and concentrated into an injectable form. - Injection
Your podiatrist injects the stem cells into the damaged joint using ultrasound guidance for accuracy. - Healing Phase
Over the next weeks and months, the cells get to work inside the joint. Many patients notice gradual improvements in movement and daily comfort.
There’s no overnight transformation; healing takes time; but the results can feel more natural than short-term pain shots.
What Conditions Can Stem Cell Therapy Help?
Stem cell injections may help with:
- Foot and ankle arthritis
- Big toe joint arthritis (hallux rigidus)
- Chronic tendon damage
- Previous injuries that never fully healed
People who want to delay or avoid surgery often look into this option first.
Benefits Patients Often Notice
While every case is different, many patients report:
- Less pain with walking
- Increased joint flexibility
- Easier movement in the morning
- Fewer flare-ups
- A longer-lasting improvement compared to standard injections
For active adults, this often means being able to return to normal routines without constant discomfort.
Are There Risks?
Yes, and they should be taken seriously.
Common possibilities include:
- Temporary soreness
- Swelling at the injection site
- No improvement (it doesn’t work for everyone)
More serious complications are rare but still possible. A detailed evaluation with your podiatrist helps determine if you’re a good candidate.
How Does Stem Cell Therapy Compare to Other Treatments?
Here’s how it stacks up next to more familiar options:
| Treatment | How It Helps | How Long Relief May Last |
|---|---|---|
| Cortisone injections | Reduces inflammation quickly | Weeks to a few months |
| Hyaluronic acid injections | Lubricates the joint | A few months |
| Custom orthotics | Reduces pressure and stabilizes joints | Ongoing with use |
| Stem cell therapy | Supports healing and tissue repair | Months to years (varies) |
| Surgery | Reshapes or replaces joint structures | Long-term but requires recovery |
Many patients try stem cell therapy before considering surgery because it’s less invasive and offers longer-lasting relief than standard injections.
Who Makes a Good Candidate?
Stem cell injections might be right for you if:
- You’ve tried traditional treatments without enough relief
- You want to delay or avoid surgery
- Your arthritis is causing daily pain or stiffness
- You’re active and want a treatment that supports long-term movement
A full foot and ankle evaluation is the only way to know for sure.
A Note From Sole Foot and Ankle Valparaiso
Dr. Minhas offers regenerative treatment plans tailored to each patient, especially those struggling with arthritis that limits their quality of life. If you’re exploring options beyond cortisone shots, medications, or bracing, stem cell therapy may be worth considering.
Ready to See If Stem Cell Injections Can Help?
If foot or ankle arthritis is slowing you down, let’s talk about the next step.
Schedule your appointment with Sole Foot and Ankle Valparaiso today to find out whether regenerative medicine is right for you.
