Most people don’t fear science — they fear the sting. If you’re considering stem cell therapy, you probably want the honest version: what hurts, what doesn’t, and what “normal” feels like afterwards. This guide walks you through the typical sensations during the procedure and the first few days of recovery.

In most cases, discomfort is real but manageable. Clinics plan for it, and you can too. The key is knowing which part may feel sharp, which part feels like pressure, and when pain becomes a sign you should call for advice.

The short answer: uncomfortable moments, not constant pain

Any procedure involving needles can cause discomfort. The first “pinch” often comes from the local anaesthetic, which can sting for a few seconds. After that, many people describe pressure more than pain.

If your stem cell therapy pathway involves a joint injection, you may feel a brief push or deep pressure as the needle reaches the right spot. If it involves taking cells from bone marrow (often from the back of the hip), the aspiration step can feel sharper, but it’s usually brief rather than drawn out.

What usually feels the most intense (and why)

When patients say it “hurt”, it’s usually one of two moments. First: the numbing injection. It can feel like a quick scratch followed by a sting, and then the area starts to go numb. That’s the body’s normal response to local anaesthetic.

Second (for some techniques): the aspiration step. That can create a short, strong sensation — sometimes described as a pulling, deep ache, or a sharp “zing” that fades quickly. If your stem cell therapy plan doesn’t involve bone marrow, you may not experience this part at all.

The good news is that clinics expect this. They use local anaesthetic and careful pacing, and they talk you through each stage so you’re not surprised by what you feel.

What it feels like afterwards (the part most people worry about)

After the procedure, you might feel sore — like a bruise that’s been pressed. This often peaks within the first 24–48 hours and then gradually settles. If a joint was injected, you may notice temporary stiffness or an ache that makes you more aware of the area.

Some people also experience a short-lived flare after an injection-based procedure. That doesn’t automatically mean something has gone wrong. With stem cell therapy, this kind of soreness often responds to rest, gentle movement, and following the clinic’s aftercare advice.

Pain levels vary person to person. Your anxiety, your sensitivity, your underlying inflammation, and even how tired you are that day can change how it feels. That’s normal — and it’s exactly why patient-first clinics don’t dismiss your experience or rush you out the door.

How clinics reduce discomfort (and what you can do)
Good care isn’t “be brave.” It’s “be prepared.” Clinics typically reduce discomfort by numbing the area properly, using a steady technique, and keeping communication clear throughout. If discomfort spikes, they can pause, adjust, or slow down.

You can also make your stem cell therapy experience easier with small, practical steps: eat normally unless told otherwise, stay hydrated, and plan a lighter day afterwards. Wear comfortable clothing, and avoid scheduling stressful errands right after your appointment. Your nervous system will thank you.

Most importantly, follow the rehab and activity guidance. Resting the area for a short period and easing back into movement can reduce soreness and help you feel more in control of your recovery.

When pain is a red flag

Some discomfort is expected. But there are times when pain should prompt a call to your clinic. Watch for pain that keeps worsening instead of improving, increasing redness or heat at the site, swelling that grows, discharge, fever, or feeling generally unwell.

With stem cell therapy, you should always receive clear aftercare instructions and an easy way to get help if something doesn’t feel right. If you don’t get that, that’s a sign to ask more questions before you proceed.

Conclusion

So, is stem cell therapy painful? It can be uncomfortable, especially during the numbing injection and (in some approaches) the aspiration step, but those sharper moments are usually brief. Most people describe the after-feel as soreness rather than severe pain, and it typically settles over a few days with sensible aftercare.

If you’re considering stem cell therapy for joint pain, explore our related posts on osteoarthritis and treatment planning — or get in touch to discuss what your procedure would involve, what you’ll feel at each step, and how we’ll keep you comfortable throughout.