Stem Cells versus Total Hip Replacement

Stem cell therapies for hip osteoarthritis are relatively new, have not been subjected to rigorous scientific study, and hence are not generally covered by insurance. There is also no knowledge of long-term effectiveness because the treatment is so new. If your intent is to postpone hip replacement surgery, and you can afford the treatment, it might be worth a try, especially if you are relatively young. Perhaps you can research local clinical studies of the treatment in your area and find one that will accept you.
Here is a very recent article discussing the matter: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8832617/

With other conservative methods like hyaluronic acid (HA) effects seem to fade after 6 months to one year, and as with other non-surgical interventions, there are limits to who they can be expected to help. For example, when my hips needed replacement over 15 years ago, they were already severely eroded by arthritis - both cartilage and bone surface had significant damage. So even though I was only in my 50's, conservative treatment, including steroid injections & therapy, were completely ineffective.

Are you interested in trying to find a clinical trial?
Sue

Fron the article: " In contrast, the guidelines do not support the use of hyaluronic acid (HA), while failing to provide guidance on the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or stem cells (SC). The 2019 OARSI guidelines do not provide supportive or refutative evidence against CS, while they currently provide strong recommendations against the widespread use of PRP and SC due to poor quality evidence and a lack of standardized preparation methods."

For soft tissue problems in joints, including the SI joint and knee, we have had incredible results with PRP. But patients are screened first to make sure the problem is in soft tissues.

Sue,
Thank you so much. My orthopedists says the hip joint is bone on bone and I see this in the xray. I still have very little pain. But having had 5 other surgeries, incl left hip, in the last 5 years, I dread another surgery right now.
I really appreciate the information you provided.

Christine Ries

I have heard that it worked for people. I am trying to find someone it worked for so I can find out what to do to help make it work

Sue,
Do you know whether this CS therapy or other is used in the thumb joints or hand pain?
Thanks

I don't know the answer - maybe you can do some research - the most success is in minimally damaged knees at this point. I believe.
If you have osteoarthritis and your hips are bone-on-bone, most likely you have the same in your hands/thumbs. There are some hand exercises that strengthen surrounding tissue to help relieve pain, as well as heat or cold therapy, topical NSAIDS, and finally surgery.
There are some great discussions here on Connect about CMC Joint repairs including: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/cmc-arthroplasty-with-stablyx-implant/?pg=3#comment-2260

Sue

PRP in thumb Bone on Bone has worked for me.