Important Disclaimer

It’s important to note that exosome therapy is considered investigational. It has not been reviewed or approved by the FDA for the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of any medical condition. The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice or a guarantee of results.

What is Exosome Therapy?

Exosome therapy is an emerging regenerative medical treatment that delivers cell-derived messengers, called exosomes, into injured or degenerating joints and tissues. Exosomes are tiny extracellular vesicles harvested from stem cells, rich in proteins, lipids, and genetic material that help stimulate tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and enhance cellular communication.

Researchers are actively studying exosomes for their potential applications in regenerative medicine, joint health, cosmetic science, and other areas of healthcare. It is thought that when injected into the affected area, exosomes may help stimulate the body’s own healing response, potentially supporting the regeneration of cartilage, ligaments, and tendons. Unlike stem cell therapy, exosomes do not contain live cells, which may reduce certain risks while still offering regenerative benefits. Exosome therapy may complement PRP and stem cell protocols as part of a broader treatment strategy.

Potential benefits of Exosome Therapy

Exosome therapy is being explored as a promising, non-surgical option for both athletes and aging adults seeking relief from joint pain and tissue damage.

While results may vary, potential benefits include:

  • Minimally invasive treatment with no surgery required
  • Supports reduction in joint inflammation and chronic pain
  • May aid in the repair of cartilage, tendons, and ligaments
  • Could help delay or avoid joint replacement surgery
  • No steroids, no synthetic medications, and little to no downtime

Conditions that can be addressed with Exosome Therapy

Exosome therapy could be a potential option for patients experiencing joint and soft tissue concerns. Conditions that may be considered include:

  • Early-stage osteoarthritis (knee, hip, shoulder, ankle)
  • Soft tissue injuries and ligament sprains
  • Achilles tendonitis
  • Patellar tendonitis
  • Hamstring tendonitis
  • Rotator cuff injuries
  • Chronic joint inflammation
  • Sports-related overuse injuries
  • Degenerative joint conditions

Our approach

Lehman Joint and Performance, your treatment is guided by decades of orthopedic and sports medicine expertise. We are committed to staying at the forefront of medical and scientific advances.

  • Personalized care plans for each patient
  • On-site preparation and real-time imaging
  • State-of-the-art ultrasound imaging
  • Transparent, evidence-informed conversations about what is known and what is still being studied in exosome therapy.

Your specialist

Portrait of Dr Rick Lehman
Dr. Rick Lehman
Meet Dr. Lehman

Patient Testimonials

""

Dr Lehman was unbelievably attentive and spent an extended period of time explaining my injury. He is one of just a handful of doctors addressing a recently rediscovered ligament behind the knee. It is hard to see and for years went untreated. Overall I could not have had a better experience.

Jacob E.

Exosome Therapy Procedure

What You Might Experience During and After Exosome Therapy

Dr. Lehman would complete an evaluation of your symptoms, review your medical history, and joint function. He may use advanced imaging to help confirm your diagnosis and determine if exosome therapy is a possible solution for you.

On the day of your treatment, the exosomes would be prepared and precisely injected into the affected joint or tissue using ultrasound guidance. The procedure would typically be completed in under an hour and is performed at the Lehman Joint and Performance Clinic.

After your injection, you’ll be able to return home the same day. Some mild soreness at the injection site would be normal. Dr. Lehman would advise avoiding high-impact activities for at least 48 hours to support healing.

Based on current research, patients may begin to experience benefits within 2 to 4 weeks as inflammation decreases. Regenerative effects may continue to develop over 3 to 6 months as the body responds to the cellular signals delivered by the exosomes.

While one treatment may be sufficient, research also suggests that additional sessions could be beneficial for chronic or complex conditions, as well as for more severe injuries.

Why explore Exosome Therapy with Dr Rick Lehman?

  • Renowned sports medicine expert with 30+ years of experience
  • Pioneer in non-surgical joint regeneration
  • Nationally recognized for treating Olympic, NFL, NHL, and NCAA athletes
  • Dual clinics in Menlo Park, CA & St. Louis, MO for convenience
  • Committed to evidence-based, patient-centered care

Frequently asked questions

Currently, exosome therapy is not FDA-approved for general use and is considered an investigational treatment. However, it is legally available in the U.S. under specific regulatory guidelines when used for certain conditions. At the Lehman Joint and Performance Clinic, we ensure all exosome products are sourced from reputable, compliant laboratories and administered with patient safety and transparency as top priorities.

Exosomes are tiny particles released by cells that help facilitate communication and healing processes in the body. In orthopedic care, exosome therapy is being explored as a potential option for reducing inflammation and supporting tissue repair. Derived from stem cells, early research suggests that exosome therapy could be a cutting-edge, non-surgical option that promotes natural healing at the cellular level.

Exosomes work by delivering powerful healing signals between cells. These microscopic messengers carry proteins, growth factors, and genetic material that help reduce inflammation, stimulate tissue repair, and support the body’s natural healing process. When injected into injured or damaged areas, such as joints or tendons, they are thought to stimulate cellular repair and promote regeneration without the need for surgery.

Exosome therapy may be appropriate for individuals with joint pain, tendon or ligament injuries, early-stage arthritis, or inflammation that hasn’t responded to traditional treatments. This investigational, non-surgical option appeals to patients seeking alternative regenerative therapies that support the body’s own healing mechanisms. Its use should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. A consultation at the Lehman Joint and Performance clinic can help determine if it’s a possible treatment for you.

The entire exosome therapy procedure typically takes less than an hour. Following a thorough evaluation, the injection itself only takes a few minutes and is performed in the clinic. Most patients return to normal activities the same day, although some may experience mild soreness at the injection site. As this is an investigational therapy, results can vary, and potential benefits may develop gradually over several weeks as the body responds to the regenerative signals.

Most patients experience only mild discomfort during the injection. The treatment is minimally invasive and well-tolerated.

The effects of exosome therapy can last from several months to over a year, depending on the condition being treated, the severity of the injury, and the patient’s overall health. Some individuals experience long-term relief after just one treatment, while others may benefit from a series of injections. Your response will be monitored by Dr. Lehman to guide any needed follow-up care.

Exosome therapy is considered safe, especially when sourced and administered by experienced providers like Dr. Lehman. Because exosomes are cell-free and processed to high safety standards, the risk of rejection or allergic reaction is extremely low. Some patients may experience mild swelling, soreness, or redness at the injection site, but serious side effects are rare. As with any treatment, a thorough consultation helps ensure it’s the right fit for your condition.

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Trusted by many

Rodney
6 months ago
He done my right shoulder after a bad wreck and that was in the early 90s until this day I've yet to have any pain he's the best orthopedic surgeon in st,Louis he takes care of the st.louis blue's hockey players he knows what he's doing,I'm going to try to get back to him now for my left shoulder after surgery my doctor here , well let's say 2yearsand2 months ltr I can't pick up anything with it I need a real pro ..
Darrell L.
11 months ago
It's been 28 years since I reluctantly followed the advice of the company nurse where I worked and made an appointment with Dr Lehman, which I had to drive an hour to see. It took a month and a half to actually get in to see him. My first visit, it seems more x-rays were taken than the previous 3 years being "cared for" by a butcher that I had been seeing because I destroyed my left knee in a motorcycle accident. Dr Lehman literally put his money where his mouth was when he convinced me to opt for reparative surgery, rather than complete knee replacement at the ripe old age of 25. Surgery was scheduled, again, it took a month and a half to get in.
Why did all of this take so long, you might ask... Because he IS that good! That's how many people are waiting to see him!
Thank you Dr Lehman for working your magic on me and affording me the quality of life that I have been able to enjoy for all these years.
Very regretfully, I have taken your help for granted and probably overworked it a bit too much, and now likely will have to have more work done. Even more regretfully, as I have relocated, it may no longer be feasible for me to return.
Kama T.
1 year ago
Dr. Lehman is one of the few doctors who puts your goals for mobility or athletic performance at the top of your treatment plan. I thought I would have to choose between 'bleeding edge of orthopedics' and 'decades of experience', but Dr. Lehman is the best of both. Thanks to him and his network of top therapists, I have come back from tough injuries and stayed strong enough to compete as an endurance athlete into my 50s.
Diane W.
2 years ago
Kevin B.
5 years ago
This office is one of the best offices in the country, HANDS DOWN!!!! The staff are very professional and can deal with a high volume of people!! Always getting people in to take care of their concerns!!! They are very detailed and so so kind!!!! Dr. Lehman is “The Best”, this man treats every single patient as if they were worth a million dollars to him!!!!! He deals with the general pubic and everyday working people the same way he deals with pro athletes!!!! What a Great Surgeon!!! His expertise is hard to match!!! My son is playing Division 1 football because Dr. Lehman repaired his knee!!!! Also, He just repaired my knee!! He and his staff ensured that I had a smooth prep, great surgery, and great follow up/discharge instructions. They made sure that me and my son got back to performing duties for life at high levels!!!!I highly recommend Dr. Lehman and his office. “WHAT A GREAT GROUP OF PEOPLE”.
jonathan S.
7 years ago
Dr Lehman is simply the best! You May have to wait awhile in his office but it is worth the wait to see the best!

He takes the time to explain things so you are comfortable and understand. I think this is why the wait. He is a genuinely sincere nice man. Who wants the best for you.

I am very active, he has always got me fixed back up!

You won’t find a better doctor or person!!
Byron S.
7 years ago
The office is great. it is obvious that doctor Lehman has done many famous athletes, the walls are covered with autographed shirts. The staff is competent and Karla is dedicated to her patients. A delight to work with
Shirley Y.
8 years ago
daniel R.
9 years ago
The quality of care & professionalism is worth my 250 mile Drive. I tore both rotator cuffs in September of 2016, at age 54, not good, but thanks to Dr Rick & Dr Shana, I'm back riding Harley's, swimming & playing golf . I'm feeling better than I did at 35! The Team at US Sport medicine will make you feel like an All American Superstar !!!
Much Mahalo

Learn more about Exosome Therapy

Book your consultation with Dr. Lehman today to explore whether Exosome Therapy could help you.