The first 48 hours
- Rest the treated area; light movement is fine unless told otherwise.
- Apply cold packs wrapped in a cloth for 15 to 20 minutes at a time if swollen, unless advised otherwise.
- Keep the injection site clean and dry; leave dressings on as instructed.
- Use paracetamol for pain if suitable for you. Avoid NSAIDs unless your doctor approves.
- Avoid alcohol and stay well hydrated.
- After IV infusion, a mild fever or tiredness for a day is common.
Weeks 1 to 6
| Treatment area | General guidance |
|---|---|
| Knee or hip | Walk short distances; avoid running, jumping and deep squats; start physiotherapy as advised |
| Shoulder or elbow | Gentle range of motion; avoid heavy lifting and overhead loading |
| Spine | Avoid heavy lifting and twisting; short walks; follow posture advice |
| Face, scalp, under-eye | Gentle cleansing; strict sun protection; avoid make-up, active skincare and heat for a few days |
Your written aftercare plan will be specific to your treatment.
Rehabilitation matters
For joint, tendon and spine treatment, physiotherapy is part of the treatment, not an optional extra. Strengthening and gradual loading help the tissue adapt. We recommend arranging a physiotherapist at home before you travel, and we can provide a summary for them.
Flying home
Follow your doctor’s advice on when to fly. Walk regularly during the flight, drink water and ask about compression stockings. See travel and visa.
Warning signs: seek medical care
Seek prompt care, and then tell us, if you notice:
- Fever above 38°C, chills or feeling very unwell.
- Increasing redness, heat, swelling or pus at the injection site.
- Pain that keeps getting worse after the first few days.
- Calf pain or swelling, chest pain or sudden breathlessness.
- New numbness, weakness, or loss of bladder or bowel control after spine treatment.
- Changes in vision after any facial or under-eye treatment.
In an emergency, call your local emergency number first.
Remote follow-up
The medical team checks in on WhatsApp at agreed intervals, often at 1 week, 6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months. Simple scores of pain and function, or standardised photos for skin and hair, help track progress. You receive a written summary to share with your home doctor.
Related pages
How it works, safety, stem cell therapy, PRP therapy, knee osteoarthritis, lower back pain.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take ibuprofen after a stem cell or PRP injection?
Doctors often advise avoiding NSAIDs such as ibuprofen for a period after treatment, because they may interfere with the intended inflammatory response. Paracetamol is commonly used instead. Follow your doctor's specific advice.
When can I exercise after treatment?
Light walking is usually fine within a day or two. Running, jumping and heavy lifting are often avoided for several weeks, with a graded return guided by your rehabilitation plan.
How long until I notice results?
Any benefit typically develops gradually over 4 to 12 weeks, sometimes longer. Some people notice little change. Results cannot be guaranteed.
Is pain after the injection normal?
Yes, a flare of pain and swelling for a few days is common. Increasing pain after a few days, especially with fever, redness or heat, needs prompt medical review.
This page is general information, not medical advice, and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor. Results vary and no treatment outcome can be guaranteed. We are a patient coordination service and may receive a referral fee from partner medical providers. See our medical disclaimer and referral disclosure.