
Pioneering Stem Cell Therapy & Regenerative Medicine in Tokyo
Riso Clinic offers a specialized, science-backed approach to orthopedic care, focusing on minimally invasive stem cell treatments to restore joint function, eliminate pain, and help patients avoid major surgery.
Located in the heart of Tokyo, Riso Clinic – Japan Stem Cell Therapy is a premier medical center dedicated to transforming orthopedic care through advanced regenerative medicine. The clinic embraces a unique “hybrid” model, expertly blending traditional surgical precision with cutting-edge biological treatments. This integrated approach provides a comprehensive pathway for patients seeking to heal from chronic joint conditions like osteoarthritis and cartilage damage.
As a leader in Japanese regenerative medicine, Riso Clinic operates its own on-site Cell Culture Processing (CPC) facility. This critical advantage ensures the highest standards of quality, safety, and cell viability for all treatments. By meticulously managing the entire process from cell extraction to injection, the clinic delivers personalized, effective, and reliable outcomes for patients worldwide.
Why Riso Clinic Is Your Premier Choice for Regenerative Care in Japan
Our clinic is founded on principles of clinical excellence, patient safety, and personalized care, ensuring you receive the most advanced and appropriate treatment for your condition.
Choosing Riso Clinic means entrusting your health to a team that prioritizes non-surgical solutions whenever possible. Under the direction of a seasoned orthopedic surgeon, we provide an accurate diagnosis to determine if you are a candidate for regenerative therapy, potentially helping you avoid the lengthy recovery and risks associated with joint replacement surgery. Our patient-centric philosophy ensures your treatment plan is tailored to your lifestyle, activity level, and long-term health goals.
Furthermore, our treatments are conducted under Japan’s stringent medical regulations, which are among the strictest in the world. This commitment to safety, combined with our in-house cell processing capabilities, offers unparalleled peace of mind. We provide not just a treatment but a complete ecosystem of care, including post-procedure rehabilitation and lifestyle optimization to support and sustain your recovery.
❝Our mission is to harness the body’s natural healing power with the most advanced regenerative science, providing a superior alternative to invasive surgery for joint preservation and restoration.❞
Facility & Technology
Riso Clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment technology. Our most significant asset is our on-site Cell Culture Processing (CPC) facility, allowing for meticulous quality control over synovial stem cell cultivation. This ensures that the cells used for treatment are of the highest purity and viability.
Our modern and serene clinic environment is designed for patient comfort and safety. We utilize advanced imaging for precise diagnostics and treatment planning. In cases where surgery is necessary, we coordinate with our affiliate, Shimokitazawa Hospital, to provide seamless care with advanced arthroscopic and prosthetic technologies.
Advanced Stem Cell Protocols for Orthopedic Restoration
We offer a focused range of highly effective regenerative treatments designed to repair joint damage, reduce inflammation, and restore mobility.
⚕ Synovial Stem Cell Therapy for Knee & Hip Osteoarthritis
This is our hallmark treatment, utilizing powerful stem cells derived from the synovium (joint lining). Research shows these cells have a superior capacity to differentiate into cartilage compared to cells from other sources. The procedure involves a minimally invasive injection that delivers a high concentration of cultured stem cells directly to the damaged joint, promoting natural tissue regeneration, reducing chronic pain, and improving overall joint function.
⚕ Cellular Repair for Joint, Cartilage, and Ligament Injuries
Beyond osteoarthritis, our regenerative protocols are effective for a range of orthopedic issues, including sports injuries like meniscus tears, ACL/MCL damage, and patellofemoral pain syndrome. The therapy works by signaling the body’s repair mechanisms, reducing inflammation, and providing the cellular building blocks necessary to heal damaged tissues. This approach accelerates recovery and helps restore joint stability and strength without the need for surgery.
Meet Our Board-Certified Regenerative Medicine Specialists in Tokyo
Riso Clinic is led by a highly experienced and respected figure in both orthopedic surgery and regenerative medicine.

Dr. Shinichiro Iwata
Dr. Shinichiro Iwata is a distinguished orthopedic specialist with over 25 years of dedicated clinical experience. Having personally performed more than 2,500 successful knee surgeries, he possesses a profound understanding of joint biomechanics and pathology. This deep surgical expertise uniquely positions him to accurately assess when a patient can benefit from regenerative medicine versus when a surgical intervention is truly necessary.
A graduate of the Keio University School of Medicine, Dr. Iwata furthered his expertise as a Visiting Researcher at Stanford University, specializing in knee joint motion analysis. He is also the founder of the NPO “Low Back and Knee Pain Team Medical Research Institute,” demonstrating his commitment to advancing orthopedic care. His leadership ensures that Riso Clinic remains at the forefront of safe, effective, and evidence-based regenerative treatments.
Patient Success Stories: Regenerative Recovery at Riso Clinic
Hear directly from patients who have experienced renewed mobility and a higher quality of life thanks to the care they received at our clinic.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stem Cell Therapy in Japan
1. What is stem cell therapy and how does it work for joint pain?
Stem cell therapy is a form of regenerative medicine that uses the body’s own repair mechanisms to heal damaged tissue. For joint pain, we inject a concentration of powerful stem cells into the affected area. These cells can differentiate into specialized cells (like cartilage), reduce inflammation, and signal other cells to begin the healing process, leading to reduced pain and improved function.
2. Who is an ideal candidate for stem cell treatment at Riso Clinic?
Ideal candidates are individuals with mild to moderate osteoarthritis, cartilage defects, or certain ligament/tendon injuries who wish to avoid or postpone major surgery. A thorough evaluation, including MRI imaging, is conducted by Dr. Iwata to determine if you are a suitable candidate for our regenerative protocols.
3. What type of stem cells does Riso Clinic use?
We specialize in using autologous (from the patient’s own body) synovial mesenchymal stem cells. These cells are harvested from the joint’s synovial membrane and are known for their high potential to form new cartilage, making them particularly effective for orthopedic conditions.
4. Is stem cell therapy a painful procedure?
The procedure is minimally invasive. Both the initial harvesting of tissue and the final injection are performed using local anesthesia to ensure patient comfort. Most patients report only minor discomfort, similar to a standard joint injection, which typically resolves within a day or two.
5. How long does it take to see results from the treatment?
While some patients may notice improvements in a few weeks, the regenerative process is gradual. Significant improvements in pain and function typically develop over the course of 3 to 6 months as the new tissue grows and integrates into the joint. Full results are often seen within a year.
6. Are the stem cell treatments at Riso Clinic safe and regulated?
Absolutely. All our procedures adhere to the strict guidelines set by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. Because we use autologous cells from your own body, the risk of rejection or adverse reaction is virtually eliminated. Our in-house CPC facility adds another layer of safety and quality control.
7. What is the recovery process like after a stem cell injection?
Recovery is significantly faster than surgical alternatives. Patients are typically advised to rest and limit strenuous activity for the first few days. A personalized rehabilitation plan is then provided to gradually increase activity, strengthen the surrounding muscles, and maximize the treatment’s effectiveness.
8. Why should I travel to Japan for stem cell therapy?
Japan is a world leader in regenerative medicine research and maintains one of the highest regulatory standards for medical procedures globally. Traveling to a specialized center like Riso Clinic in Tokyo gives you access to cutting-edge technology, proven clinical expertise, and a healthcare system renowned for its precision, safety, and quality.
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