Rehabilitation Protocols Following Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections in the Hip

The field of orthobiologics has developed markedly over the past decade, particularly with respect to the applications of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in chronic musculoskeletal injuries. This review will cover the current understanding of PRP and focus on the post-procedure rehabilitation phase to augment outcomes in hip pathologies.

Numerous level 1 studies support the role of PRP as a superior treatment for several chronic musculoskeletal conditions such as knee osteoarthritis, lateral epicondylopathy, gluteus medius tendinopathy, etc. Additionally, the optimal components and refinement methods of PRP with relation to tendinopathy versus osteoarthritis are currently under investigation. However, the literature is scant on optimal rehabilitation protocols after these procedures.

Physical rehabilitation is critical for the recovery of musculoskeletal injuries, especially when considering the goal of long-term functional improvement. Although PRP is a promising treatment modality for enhancing the healing process of chronic musculoskeletal injuries, quality exercise/rehabilitation at the appropriate timing after procedure is likely to accelerate the recovery process and augment PRP outcomes.