Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a regenerative treatment that harnesses the body’s natural healing capabilities to repair damaged tissues. This process involves drawing a small amount of the patient’s blood, concentrating the platelets, and injecting this solution into an injured area, such as a tendon, ligament, muscle, or joint. The concentrated platelets release growth factors that stimulate cellular repair and the formation of new, healthy tissue. Since PRP initiates a biological healing cascade rather than providing immediate symptom relief, the success of the injection relies heavily on proper post-procedure care, especially concerning physical activity.
Immediate Post-Injection Restrictions
The first 48 to 72 hours following a PRP injection represent the most delicate period for the treatment site and require absolute rest. This initial downtime allows the injected platelet concentrate to stabilize within the target tissue. High-impact activities, heavy lifting, or any exercises that place significant stress on the treated area must be strictly avoided.
The primary goal during this phase is to support the controlled inflammatory response that the PRP injection initiates. When the concentrated platelets are activated, they release growth factors that trigger a localized healing process. This reaction often results in temporary soreness, swelling, or warmth, which signals that the regenerative process has begun.
Patients must avoid Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen for at least two weeks post-injection. NSAIDs inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, which can disrupt the inflammatory cascade PRP relies upon for tissue repair. For pain management, acetaminophen is recommended as it does not interfere with platelet function or biological signals. Furthermore, applying ice is discouraged during the first 48 hours, as the resulting vasoconstriction may impair the delivery of growth factors to the injury site.
The Purpose of Controlled Movement
After the initial 48 to 72 hours of strict rest, recovery shifts into a subacute phase where controlled, low-intensity movement becomes beneficial. This therapeutic mobilization typically begins around three to seven days post-injection. The introduction of gentle activity at this stage promotes a healthy healing environment, rather than conditioning.
Controlled movement aids in preventing joint stiffness and maintaining the viability of surrounding tissues. For lower body injections, this might involve light, short-distance walking, provided it is pain-free and does not cause limping. If the injection was in a non-weight-bearing area, such as a shoulder tendon, this phase includes passive or assisted range-of-motion exercises.
This light activity stimulates blood flow, which is essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients to the healing tissue. Introducing minor, non-stressful loads helps guide the organization of newly forming collagen fibers. The developing tissue needs gentle mechanical input to align properly, ensuring the repaired area can withstand future functional demands. Movement must remain below the threshold of pain, as this is therapeutic mobilization, not strenuous conditioning.
Establishing a Timeline for Full Return to Exercise
The progression toward a full return to exercise is a gradual process that begins in the weeks following the injection, typically around Week 4. At this point, the initial phase of tissue repair transitions into the remodeling phase, where the new matrix is strengthened. The objective shifts from gentle mobilization to functional strength and conditioning.
A gradual increase in resistance training, running, or competitive sports should only be initiated under the guidance of a physician or physical therapist. Progression is slow and typically takes four to eight weeks, or longer, depending on the severity of the original injury and the tissue treated. For instance, a long-standing tendon injury requires a more cautious and extended progression than a minor muscle strain.
The guiding principle for increasing activity is the patient’s symptoms. If an activity causes increased pain, stiffness, or swelling, the load is too high, and the activity should be regressed. This symptom-guided approach ensures the new tissue is not overloaded before achieving sufficient strength. Consulting with the treating physician or physical therapist for a personalized protocol is essential, as generalized timelines must be adjusted based on the individual’s healing response and the specific demands of their activity.