Bone Marrow vs Adipose-Derived Cells: Which Regenerative Therapy Is Right for You?
Bone Marrow vs Adipose-Derived Cells: Which Regenerative Therapy Is Right for You?
Introduction: Moving Beyond Cortisone Shots
Cortisone injections have long been used to temporarily reduce joint inflammation. While they can provide short-term relief, they do not address the underlying tissue changes that contribute to ongoing joint discomfort.
Regenerative medicine offers an alternative approach. Using your own biological materials, cellular therapies derived from bone marrow or adipose tissue are designed to support the body’s natural repair processes rather than just suppress symptoms.
If you’re considering regenerative treatment, you may be wondering:
What’s the difference between bone marrow-derived and adipose-derived therapy — and which might be appropriate for me?
What Are Bone Marrow and Adipose-Derived Cellular Therapies?
Both types of therapy fall under orthobiologics, which use cells from your own body to support joint, tendon, and ligament health.
🦴 Bone Marrow-Derived Cellular Therapy
Collected from the pelvis (iliac crest) via a brief in-office procedure
Contains mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), growth factors, and immune modulators
Studied for their potential role in supporting tissue repair and reducing joint inflammation
🧈 Adipose (Fat)-Derived Cellular Therapy
Harvested from the abdomen or flanks through a mini liposuction procedure
Rich in regenerative signaling molecules and pericytes
May help support cartilage health, joint lubrication, and soft tissue recovery
Both procedures are minimally invasive, performed under local anesthesia, and guided by ultrasound for precision.
Comparing the Two: Which One’s Better?
1. Concentration & Activity
Bone marrow often contains a higher proportion of MSCs, which are commonly studied for cartilage repair.
Adipose tissue provides a larger total volume of regenerative cells, which may support soft tissue and joint function.
Potential suitability:
Bone marrow: moderate to advanced joint degeneration, bone-on-bone arthritis
Adipose: early-to-moderate arthritis, soft-tissue injuries, chronic inflammation
2. Procedure & Recovery
Bone marrow: 15–30 minutes, mild soreness near the pelvis afterward
Adipose: slightly longer procedure, possible minor bruising at harvest site
Both typically allow patients to resume normal activity within 24–48 hours, with no stitches or general anesthesia required
3. Safety & Side Effects
Both sources are autologous (from your own body), minimizing the risk of immune reactions or rejection
Temporary soreness or swelling may occur, but serious complications are rare
For comparison, repeated cortisone injections may carry risks such as cartilage breakdown, elevated blood sugar, or tendon weakening. Cellular therapies aim to support the body’s natural repair processes, not just suppress symptoms.
4. Duration of Improvement
Studies report variable, patient-specific results:
Bone marrow therapies: may provide improvement in pain or function for months in certain cases
Adipose therapies: also may offer improvements in joint function or comfort over time
Results are influenced by the severity of joint degeneration, overall health, and other lifestyle factors
Cortisone injections typically provide short-term relief of several weeks
5. Cost Considerations
Cellular therapies are often not covered by insurance
Potential long-term benefits may reduce the need for repeated injections, surgery, or extended rehabilitation
At Joint Vitality Institute, we offer:
Transparent pricing
Financing options
Bundled treatment plans
Supportive therapies such as shockwave, laser, and functional assessments
Which Therapy Might Be Suitable?
Condition Recommended Source
Severe osteoarthritis Bone Marrow
Early to moderate arthritis Adipose
Tendon or ligament injury Either (based on case)
Joint instability Bone Marrow
Soft-tissue recovery Adipose
Selection depends on patient-specific factors including age, activity level, and overall health. A comprehensive consultation is recommended.
Next Step: Schedule Your Discovery Call
If you’re interested in exploring non-surgical options for joint health, our team can help you determine whether bone marrow or adipose-derived cellular therapy may be appropriate for your individual situation.
Personalized consultation with functional assessment and ultrasound imaging
Discussion of medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle factors
Transparent explanation of procedures, potential benefits, and realistic expectations
👉 Click here to schedule your personalized discovery call
Take the first step toward supporting your joint health naturally — together.
