Recent study has given hope that damaged bones and joints can be healed without series of difficult surgeries. Researchers found that stem cells can be used repair damaged bones and joints.

Researchers at Keele University are testing the effectiveness of injectible stem cells in animal models. These stem cells can be injected and guided with a magnet to place where they are needed. Study on mice has shown that these stem cells were able to grow new cartilage and bone.

Professor Alicia El Haj and Professor John Dobson from Keele University, says that the technology, patented by Magnecell, could be tested in humans within five years.

The new treatment uses patient's own stem cells which are later given a coating of minute magnetic particles.

Professor Al Haj said: "The ultimate aim is to repair cartilage and bone. We have been able to grow new bone in mice. Now we will look at whether we can repair damaged sites in goats."

"We should be able to move to human trials within five years."