I’ve Had My PRP Procedure…Now What?

What is Platelet Rich Plasma?

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) is a treatment that uses a preparation of the patient’s own blood, where the platelets are isolated and activated before being reinjected into the body. These platelets are essential for stimulating tissue repair and regeneration in areas such as bone, cartilage, skin, ligaments, tendons, and muscles.

PRP is commonly used by orthopedic specialists to address both traumatic injuries and degenerative conditions like arthritis. The procedure is generally well-tolerated because it utilizes the patient’s own cells, reducing the risk of adverse reactions.

At Ospina Medical, Dr. Matthew Kohler, a double board-certified pain management specialist and certified Regenexx provider, offers advanced regenerative therapies like PRP by Regenexx and Same-Day Bone Marrow Concentrate, which contains stem cells. His exclusive Regenexx training ensures personalized treatment plans that may support long-term healing and improve joint function. These treatments, while an excellent alternative to surgery for qualifying candidates, still involve a period of recovery that patients should anticipate as part of their healing journey. However, with the right preparation and guidance, the recovery process can be manageable and rewarding, leading to optimal outcomes.

Expectations for the Days Following Your PRP Procedure

While the PRP procedure is minimally invasive, it still induces a micro-injury at the injection site, which is necessary to stimulate healing. Here’s what to expect in the initial days:  

• Soreness and Mild Discomfort:  
  • It’s common to experience soreness around the injected area for 1–3 days post-procedure.  
  • Tylenol (acetaminophen) can help relieve discomfort.  
  • Avoid NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen), as they can interfere with the healing process.  
  • If necessary, your physician may prescribe additional pain management options.      
• Joint Protection:  
  • Minimize joint usage for optimal healing.  
  • Use any recommended braces or support devices to protect the area (Learn more about post-procedure care).      
• Why Inflammation Matters:  
  • The initial inflammation following a PRP procedure is a crucial part of the body's healing response. This signals the body to deliver essential growth factors and healing cells to the injured area, facilitating tissue repair and regeneration.  
  • NSAIDs can suppress this necessary inflammatory process by reducing the body's natural inflammatory signaling, potentially hindering the effectiveness of the PRP treatment. By avoiding NSAIDs, patients support their bodies in undergoing the natural healing cascade that promotes optimal tissue regeneration and recovery.   

Recovery Timeline: Weeks After Your PRP Procedure

1–4 Weeks Post-Procedure: Gradual Return to Light Activities  

• Minimal movement of the injected joint or area is recommended.  
• Begin light tasks as tolerated but avoid overexertion. These can include gentle stretching, short walks, or light household chores that do not put strain on the treated area.  
• Monitor for signs of inflammation or increased pain and adjust activities accordingly.  
• Gradual introduction of low-impact exercises like stationary cycling or swimming may be considered if approved by your physician, helping to maintain circulation and prevent stiffness.

6–8 Weeks Post-Procedure: Resuming More Intense Activities  

• Increase physical activity gradually.  
• Avoid complete immobility—consistent movement aids recovery.  
• Physical Therapy Considerations: Physical therapy is often advised for patients who may need to rebuild strength, restore joint mobility, or enhance overall functional performance after their PRP procedure. Tailored physical therapy programs can help improve flexibility, prevent stiffness, and support optimal long-term recovery.

6 Months – 1 or 2 Years Post-Procedure: Peak Results  

• Patients often see continued improvement for up to two years.  
• With consistent rehabilitation and physical therapy, many approach their peak joint function during this period.  
• Ongoing strength training and flexibility exercises are crucial to maintain progress and prevent re-injury.  
• Periodic follow-up evaluations with your healthcare provider can help monitor recovery, adjust physical therapy goals, and address any emerging concerns.  
• Lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a healthy weight and staying active with low-impact activities, further support optimal long-term results.

Explore post-procedure recovery in detail. 

PRP Benefits and Real Patient Outcomes

Regenexx outcome data offers valuable insight into how patients benefit from PRP procedures. Let's look at the Knee Joint as an example:

Knee Joint Function:  

• 13% improvement in joint function within the first month.  
• Steady improvement leading to over 20% improvement by year four.

Knee Joint Pain Reduction:  

• Average pain levels drop from 5/10 pre-procedure to 2.5/10 one month post-procedure, representing a 48% decrease in pain.

Overall Improvement:  

• Patients report a 38% improvement in overall well-being within just one month post-treatment.

Access real-time patient outcome data in more detail. 

Conclusion

A PRP procedure offers a minimally invasive solution for those seeking natural, regenerative approaches to pain management and joint health. Understanding what to expect post-procedure—from initial soreness to gradual recovery—is key to optimizing your results.

With Dr. Matthew Kohler and our Ospina Medical team, patients can access personalized treatment plans, advanced Regenexx recovery  protocols, and cutting-edge regenerative therapies. Our patient-centered approach ensures you receive the support, knowledge, and care necessary for long-term pain relief and improved mobility.

Book your initial consultation today and take the next step toward lasting relief and restored function!

Written By: Dakota Boonstra

Edited By: Camden Rowe

Medically Reviewed By: Matthew Kohler, MD