Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections harness the body’s natural healing capabilities using a concentrated preparation of a patient’s own platelets. These platelets contain growth factors that stimulate cellular repair and regeneration in damaged tissues. When administered into the shoulder, PRP aims to enhance the healing process.
The Initial 72 Hours
The first one to three days following a shoulder PRP injection involve specific sensations and care. It is common to experience mild to moderate pain, soreness, bruising, and swelling at the injection site. This initial discomfort is a natural inflammatory response, an integral part of the healing process initiated by PRP. Some individuals might even notice an initial increase in pain before improvement begins.
Resting the treated shoulder for the first 24 to 48 hours is advised to protect the injection site and allow healing to begin. While complete inactivity is not necessary, avoiding strenuous activities is important. Applying ice packs for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times daily, can help manage swelling and discomfort during this acute phase.
During this initial timeframe, it is important to avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen. These medications can hinder PRP’s effectiveness by interfering with platelet function and the release of growth factors. Acetaminophen, like Tylenol, is generally permissible for pain relief. Keeping the injection site clean and dry also helps prevent complications.
Navigating Early Recovery
From week one through week four, the shoulder transitions into an early recovery phase. Acute pain should gradually subside, leading to more manageable discomfort. Patients may begin to notice some initial improvement in their symptoms within these first few weeks.
Activity progression during this phase should be gradual and controlled. Light, gentle movements and range-of-motion exercises can be incorporated a few days after the procedure. However, strenuous activities, heavy lifting, high-impact movements, and repetitive loaded exercises should still be avoided to prevent disrupting healing tissues. Gentle stretching helps promote blood flow and maintains flexibility in the shoulder.
Continued avoidance of NSAIDs remains important throughout this early recovery period, ideally for at least one month after the injection. The inflammatory phase, which NSAIDs suppress, is a necessary part of the body’s natural response that PRP is designed to stimulate. During this time, concentrated platelets continue to release growth factors, and new tissue formation begins. Adhering to activity instructions provided by the healthcare provider is important for optimal healing.
Rehabilitation and Long-Term Progress
The longer-term recovery process after a shoulder PRP injection typically spans several weeks to months. Physical therapy plays a significant role in this phase, often starting within the first week after the injection or once initial soreness diminishes. Therapy focuses on restoring the shoulder’s range of motion, improving flexibility, and building strength and function.
Rehabilitation exercises should progress gradually, with therapist guidance, ensuring activity levels do not exacerbate pain. Strengthening exercises target muscles supporting the shoulder joint, including the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizers, to enhance stability and prevent future injury. Consistent adherence to the prescribed rehabilitation program is important for maximizing PRP treatment benefits.
Improvements from a PRP injection are typically gradual, with initial changes noted within a few weeks. Full effects often become more apparent several months after the injection, potentially peaking around three months or extending up to six to twelve months. The benefits can last for six months to a year or longer, depending on the individual and the nature of the injury. The timeline for returning to full activity varies considerably among individuals, influenced by the severity of the initial injury and the body’s response to treatment.
Recognizing Potential Concerns
While PRP injections are generally considered safe, it is important to be aware of signs and symptoms that warrant prompt medical attention. Any indication of infection at the injection site should be addressed immediately. These signs include increasing redness, warmth, significant swelling, pus or discharge, or fever. Although rare, infection is a possibility with any injection.
A sudden and severe increase in pain, or pain that significantly worsens days after the injection, should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. While some discomfort is normal as healing begins, unexpected or escalating pain can signal an issue. New onset of numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm or hand could suggest nerve irritation or, in rare cases, nerve damage. Any unexpected worsening of symptoms or persistent concerns should lead to contacting the healthcare provider for guidance.