What to Expect Before and After PRP Injections for Joint and Tissue Repair

To achieve the best possible results from your PRP injection, please review the following important preparation steps:

1. Consult With Your Provider:
Before your procedure, have a thorough discussion with your provider. Share your complete medical history, including any prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, supplements, or herbal products you use. Our team will let you know if you should pause any medications—especially anti-inflammatory drugs at least one week before your PRP session, as these can affect the effectiveness of your treatment. If you are currently taking corticosteroids or have recently received steroid injections, please notify us.

2. Hydrate Well:
Proper hydration makes the blood draw for your PRP treatment easier and more comfortable. Increase your water intake for a few days leading up to your appointment.

3. Eat a Light Meal:
On the day of your PRP injection, have a light meal before arrival. This can help prevent dizziness or lightheadedness during or after your blood draw.

4. Avoid Alcohol and Smoking:
For optimal healing and platelet quality, we recommend avoiding alcohol and smoking for several days before your appointment.

5. Monitor Your Health:
If you develop symptoms of an infection, fever, or feel unwell prior to your scheduled visit, please contact Jean Walter Infusion Center. We may need to reschedule your procedure to ensure your safety.

6. Dress Comfortably:
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area where your PRP injection will be administered.

7. Review Aftercare Instructions:
Our team will review post-procedure care instructions with you. Please ask any questions so you feel confident about caring for the injection site and supporting your recovery at home.

Following these guidelines will help you prepare for your PRP treatment and maximize the effectiveness and safety of your procedure.

PRP injection procedure is designed to be efficient and convenient, typically requiring just 30 minutes to an hour of your time.

When you arrive, one of our skilled healthcare professionals will begin by drawing a small sample of your blood, much like a routine blood test. Your blood is then carefully processed using a specialized centrifuge onsite, which separates and concentrates the platelets and plasma. This step usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes and is performed right here in our center to ensure quality and safety.

Once your PRP is prepared, the treatment area is thoroughly cleaned, and a local anesthetic may be applied for your comfort. Using precise techniques, our experienced providers inject the concentrated platelets into the targeted joint, tendon, or scalp—depending on your personalized treatment plan. The actual injection is quick and typically causes only mild discomfort or pressure.

Throughout the procedure, our team monitors your comfort and safety. After your injection, you may be observed briefly, and then you can usually return home the same day. Most patients resume normal activities shortly after treatment, though you’ll receive clear aftercare instructions to follow for optimal results.

While each patient’s recovery timeline can vary depending on the specific joint treated, the severity of your condition, your overall health, and your individual response to PRP, there are some general guidelines to keep in mind after your procedure with us.

What You May Experience After Your PRP Injection

Most patients experience mild discomfort, swelling, or soreness at the injection site for a few days following treatment. These symptoms are typically manageable with rest, application of ice, and—if recommended by your provider—over-the-counter pain medication. Our team will provide you with clear instructions to help you manage any immediate post-injection symptoms.

Activity and Recovery Timeline

First Week: We recommend avoiding strenuous activities or heavy exercise involving the treated joint during the first week after your PRP injection. Light movement and gentle range-of-motion exercises may be encouraged to help prevent joint stiffness. Please follow the specific recommendations provided by your Jean Walter Infusion Center care team or physical therapist.

Resuming Daily Activities: Most of our patients are able to return to their normal daily routines within three to seven days. However, you should listen to your body and avoid pushing through any pain or discomfort.

Returning to Higher-Impact Activities: Activities such as running or sports may need to be postponed for two to six weeks, depending on your individual progress.

Following your PRP procedure, our team will schedule a follow-up visit—usually within a few weeks—to assess your progress. During this appointment, we will discuss your pain levels, mobility, and any noticeable changes in your symptoms. We may also perform a physical examination and, if needed, recommend imaging studies to monitor your healing.

What to Expect After Your Injection

It is normal to experience some mild soreness or swelling around the injection site in the days immediately after your PRP treatment. Our providers typically suggest rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relief (unless otherwise directed) to help you stay comfortable. We also advise patients to avoid strenuous activity or heavy exercise for a short time, allowing their body to focus on recovery.

Personalized Recovery and Rehabilitation

As part of your ongoing care, your physician may recommend a personalized rehabilitation or physical therapy plan to restore strength, flexibility, and function in the treated area. You will be given specific instructions on when and how to safely resume your normal activities. Recovery times can vary, depending on the nature of your injury and your body’s response to PRP therapy.

Ongoing Communication and Support

Our team is here to support you every step of the way. If you notice persistent pain, increased swelling, redness, or other concerning symptoms, please contact Jean Walter Infusion Center right away. We will continue to monitor your progress closely and may suggest additional treatments or repeat PRP injections if necessary, tailored to your individual needs. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 700 Geipe Rd, Suite 200A, Catonsville, MD 21228. We serve patients from Catonsville MD, Hebbville MD, Woodlawn MD, Arbutus MD, Ellicott City MD, and surrounding areas.