Before anyone travels to see us, we want them to have a realistic sense of whether regenerative medicine is likely to apply to their case. This checklist reflects the factors we actually weigh — it isn't a substitute for an evaluation, but it should help you walk into your intake with clear expectations instead of guesswork.
Factors That Generally Support Candidacy
- Chronic, not acute, symptoms: Pain or dysfunction that has persisted for months, rather than a fresh injury from the last few days.
- Imaging shows degeneration, not collapse: Joint space narrowing or soft tissue damage that hasn't progressed to complete structural failure.
- Conservative options already tried: Physical therapy, medication, or injections that provided partial or temporary relief.
- Realistic expectations: Understanding that regenerative medicine aims to reduce symptoms and support function, not guarantee a specific outcome.
- General fitness for a same-day, ambulatory visit: No acute medical conditions that would make outpatient care and travel unsafe.
Factors That May Point Toward a Different Path
We'd rather tell you this upfront than after you've booked a flight:
- Complete, end-stage structural collapse of the joint (commonly described as "bone-on-bone" with severe deformity).
- Certain acute injuries that require immediate surgical stabilization.
- Active infection or other medical conditions that would need to be addressed first.
If any of these apply, our physicians will tell you directly, and where appropriate, explain why surgery or another route is more suitable for your situation.
"A checklist can tell you if it's worth applying. Only a physician reviewing your actual imaging can tell you if you qualify."
What We Actually Review During Intake
After your short initial form, if you appear to be a potential fit, we send a more detailed questionnaire covering your medical history, current medications, prior treatments and imaging, and your specific goals. Dr. Leopoldo or Dr. Andrea reviews this personally before any plan or pricing is discussed.
This Is a Starting Point, Not a Diagnosis
We built this list to save you time, not to replace a real evaluation. If you read through it and think you might be a fit, the next step is simple: start the intake, and let our physicians confirm it properly.
Related reading: Stem cell therapy vs. PRP vs. surgery, explained · What happens if you're not a candidate
Frequently Asked Questions
No. This checklist helps you understand the factors we review, but eligibility is only confirmed after a physician reviews your imaging and history.
Not for the first intake. If you appear to be a potential fit, we'll request imaging as part of the detailed questionnaire.
Prior surgery doesn't automatically rule you out, but it's an important part of your history that our physicians review carefully before any recommendation.
See where you stand.
Start with our quick intake form. If you look like a potential fit, we'll send the detailed questionnaire next.
Request an Evaluation