Knee pain is a common health issue that can significantly reduce your quality of life. Unfortunately, over-the-counter pain medications and cortisone injections can only do so much. That’s where a treatment like stem cell therapy may come in. It’s a relatively new therapy that can repair injured knees and restore healthy joint function.
Since stem cell therapy is a costly procedure, you may be wondering whether Medicare will cover some or all of the costs. Medicare only pays for stem cell therapy services that have received FDA approval and are deemed medically necessary. The FDA has only approved treatments that involve blood-forming cells including hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and autologous stem cell transplantation.
Unfortunately, stem cell therapy for the knees is not currently approved by the FDA or covered by Medicare. The good news is this may change in the future, especially as medical research for this treatment continues.
How much does stem cell therapy for knees cost?
Stem cell therapy for the knees can range from $3,000 to $5,000 per knee. Of course, the exact price depends on a number of factors like your unique needs, healthcare provider, and location.
Does BCBS cover stem cell therapy for the knees?
Currently, no major insurance carriers, including BCBS covers stem cell therapy for the knees. Fortunately, BCBS may pay for other knee treatments such as physical therapy, nerve therapy or knee braces.
How long does knee stem cell therapy last?
It’s important to understand that while stem cell therapy may reduce knee pain for a while, it’s not a magic solution that will cure it forever. That’s why you should be wary of any healthcare provider or facility that claims stem cell therapy will completely heal your knee pain.
Why should you need to get stem cell therapy for knees?
Depending on the severity of your condition, stem cell therapy for the knees may be a viable alternative to a knee replacement. Research has shown that this treatment can reduce pain from osteoarthritis or previous injuries, reduce joint stiffness, and reduce dependability on pain medications while improving mobility. Compared to a knee replacement, stem cell therapy offers a quicker recovery period and less side effects.
What age do patients usually consider having stem cell therapy done for knees?
Stem cell therapy for the knees can be a smart option for a variety of patients. Many healthcare providers recommend it to patients who are in reasonably good health, at least a bit active, and under the age of 75. While this treatment won’t hurt patients over 75, it may not be as effective. After performing a comprehensive evaluation, your healthcare provider will determine whether you’re a good candidate for stem cell therapy.
Contact MAIR Agency Today
If you’re interested in stem cell therapy for your knees and would like to find the right health insurance plan for your unique situation, don’t hesitate to contact us today. We’d be happy to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the process.