Zac Efron is opening up about a transformative experience that’s helped him recover from a painful back injury: stem cell therapy. The 36-year-old actor took to Instagram to share his journey toward healing and the role this cutting-edge treatment has played in getting him back on track. As one of Hollywood’s most physically committed stars, Zac’s dedication to his craft has sometimes taken a toll on his body, but he’s now found a new approach to recovery.
In a heartfelt post, Zac praised his doctor and discussed the intense six-month recovery process he’s been through after sustaining an injury while filming The Iron Claw. The Mayo Clinic explains that stem cells are “found in almost all tissues of the body. They are needed for the maintenance of tissue as well as for repair after injury,” making them an essential part of Zac’s rehabilitation journey.
Reflecting on how it all started, Zac shared the moment that led him down the path of stem cell therapy. “I fully commit to my roles, which I love, but it takes a toll,” he explained. During the physically demanding shoot of The Iron Claw, Zac pushed his body to the limit, resulting in a serious back injury. At first, he tried physical therapy to alleviate the pain, but after seeing little improvement, he knew he needed to try something else.
That’s when he turned to Eterna Health, a clinic specializing in regenerative treatments. Zac’s openness about the process sheds light on how stem cell therapy has gained traction in the world of sports and entertainment, particularly for those dealing with chronic pain or injury. While it’s still considered a newer medical treatment, many have found success with it—including Zac.
Even during his preparation for The Iron Claw, Zac was well aware of how intense the role would be both mentally and physically. “The physicality he brought to the ring every single day was really unique. It changed wrestling,” he told Us Weekly, speaking about Kevin Von Erich, the real-life wrestler he portrays in the film. The dedication that Von Erich brought to the ring inspired Zac to go all-in for the role. “I knew that was going to be the hardest [thing] for me to master and get right. So, I put everything I had into it,” Zac added.
The toll it took on Zac’s body was undeniable, but he credits stem cell therapy for helping him recover and move forward. He noted how the treatment has allowed him to regain his strength and continue his career.
Although the back injury sidelined him for a while, Zac’s perseverance through the rehabilitation process is a testament to his passion and resilience. He has always been known for pushing himself to the extreme in roles like Baywatch and The Greatest Showman, and his portrayal of Kevin Von Erich is no different. While the injury may have been a setback, Zac still delivered one of his most impressive performances.
With his back on the mend and a newfound appreciation for the power of stem cells, Zac is ready to move forward and continue tackling physically challenging roles. He’s shown that no matter the obstacle, he’s willing to put in the work—both on and off the screen.
