PRP Injection Recovery: What to Expect Week by Week

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a regenerative medicine treatment that supports the body’s natural healing process using concentrated platelets derived from the patient's own blood. At Interventional Orthopedics of Washington (IOW), PRP is frequently used to treat joint pain, ligament and tendon injuries, and mild to moderate arthritis as a non-surgical solution to restore mobility and reduce pain. For those considering or preparing for a PRP injection, understanding the recovery process is essential.

This guide provides a detailed, week-by-week timeline to help patients know what to expect, how to care for themselves, and how to maximize healing after treatment.

How PRP Recovery Differs from Traditional Injections

Unlike cortisone or hyaluronic acid (HA) injections, which offer short-term relief, PRP promotes long-term tissue repair by stimulating healing at the cellular level. Recovery is slower, but outcomes are often more sustainable.

• Cortisone: Rapid inflammation relief but may damage tissue over time.

• HA Injections: Improve lubrication but do not repair damaged tissue.

• PRP: Uses growth factors in your platelets to signal repair and regeneration.

Because of its regenerative nature, PRP recovery requires patience, proper care, and an active role in the healing process. You can learn more about the difference in mechanisms and long-term expectations in our article on what to expect from PRP injections long-term.

What Happens After a PRP Injection?

PRP injections at IOW are performed under ultrasound or fluoroscopic guidance to ensure accuracy. After the injection, patients may experience temporary discomfort as healing begins. Proper post-injection behavior is critical to avoid setbacks and promote optimal outcomes.

Typical post-injection experiences include:

• Mild soreness or swelling

• Stiffness at the injection site

• Localized warmth

These responses indicate an active healing response and generally subside within a few days.

Week-by-Week PRP Injection Recovery Timeline

Week 1: Inflammatory Phase

• Symptoms: Swelling, mild soreness, warmth around the joint or treatment site

• Activities: Rest, limit activity, avoid anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)

• Key Focus: Support your body's healing response; avoid ice and NSAIDs unless instructed

Week 2: Early Healing Activation

• Symptoms: Discomfort reduces; stiffness may persist

• Activities: Begin gentle movement; light physical therapy if approved

• Key Focus: Support circulation through walking or range-of-motion exercises

For those recovering from non-surgical knee injections, this phase often marks the first return to light activity. Learn how PRP fits into broader non-surgical knee treatment options in Bellevue.

Week 3–4: Regenerative Rebuilding Phase

• Symptoms: Noticeable improvement in mobility

• Activities: Structured rehab begins; low-impact strengthening may be introduced

• Key Focus: Avoid overexertion; remain consistent with rehab protocol

Week 5–6: Functional Strength and Adaptation

• Symptoms: Pain continues to decrease; strength improves

• Activities: Return to moderate physical activity; continue supervised rehab

• Key Focus: Prioritize joint stability and avoid impact movements

Week 7 and Beyond: Return to Full Activity

• Symptoms: Pain is significantly reduced or resolved

• Activities: Return to sport or activity as approved by the medical team

• Key Focus: Maintain gains with long-term mobility and strength training

Patients typically experience the full benefit of PRP between 8 and 12 weeks. Some individuals, particularly those with chronic conditions, may see continued improvement beyond this period.

How Long Does PRP Take to Work?

This depends on your diagnosis and how your body responds:

• 2–4 weeks: Initial relief and mobility gains

• 4–6 weeks: Strength and joint stability improve

• 6–12+ weeks: Full effects achieved; return to function

Results vary by diagnosis, joint treated, and adherence to aftercare guidelines. It’s important to select a provider who understands these variables. For guidance, explore how to choose the right orthopedic expert.

Common PRP Injection Side Effects

Normal:

• Mild swelling, bruising

• Temporary soreness or fatigue

• Warmth at the injection site

Call the clinic if you experience:

• Fever or chills

• Persistent or worsening pain beyond 3 days

• Redness, spreading warmth, or drainage at the injection site

What to Do After Your PRP Injection

Do:

• Rest and elevate the treated joint

• Hydrate well and eat nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory foods

• Follow your customized rehab and movement plan

Don’t:

• Take NSAIDs unless advised by your provider

• Resume high-impact activities too early

• Skip follow-up appointments or post-care rehab

Supporting Recovery Between Appointments

To optimize your results, patients are encouraged to adopt holistic support strategies:

Nutrition:

• Focus on collagen-rich proteins, Vitamin C, and Omega-3s

• Avoid processed foods, sugar, and alcohol

Lifestyle:

• Get 7–9 hours of sleep

• Manage stress levels to reduce cortisol

• Engage in gentle mobility work

Supplements (with provider guidance):

• Collagen peptides

• Turmeric/curcumin

• Vitamin C

• Magnesium

Learn which nutrients make the biggest difference in your recovery in our guide on the best supplements to support healing after regenerative therapies.

How Many PRP Injections Are Needed?

Treatment plans vary. At IOW:

• Mild conditions: One injection may be sufficient

• Chronic or degenerative conditions: A series of 2–3 injections may be recommended

Injections are typically spaced 10 weeks apart if needed. Each case is assessed based on clinical evaluation, imaging, and patient response.

Why PRP Success Depends on the Right Provider

At Interventional Orthopedics of Washington, PRP therapy is never a one-size-fits-all procedure. Success depends on precision diagnostics, evidence-based protocols, and whole-person care.

What sets IOW apart:

• Fellowship-trained physicians specifically in regenerative medicine

• Image-guided injections for accuracy

• Functional diagnostics and follow-up care

• Comprehensive recovery plans including rehab, nutrition, and hormone optimization

Not all clinics follow these standards. Learn how to avoid misleading practices in our article on identifying stem cell scams and PRP red flags.

Conclusion: Recovering With Confidence

PRP injection recovery is a gradual, strategic process. When done correctly and supported properly, PRP can offer long-term improvements in pain, mobility, and joint function without the risks of surgery.

Patients who understand the timeline and actively engage in their recovery often achieve the best outcomes. To find out if PRP is the right solution for your condition, contact Interventional Orthopedics of Washington to schedule a discovery call.