Preparing for Orthobiologics: What to Do (and Avoid) Pre‑Injection

Athletes, weekend warriors, and active individuals alike are turning to regenerative medicine to accelerate healing and relieve joint pain without surgery. Treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP), cell-based therapy, and viscosupplementation can help the body restore damaged tissues naturally. To get the best results, preparation is key. Here’s what to do (and avoid) before your orthobiologic injection.

Understanding Orthobiologics: Your Body’s Natural Healing Boost

Orthobiologic treatments use biologically derived materials, often from your own blood, bone marrow, or other tissues, to stimulate the body’s natural repair process.

• PRP therapy concentrates platelets and growth factors to promote tissue healing.
• Cell-based therapies harness specialized cells to support repair and regeneration.
• Viscosupplementation involves injecting hyaluronic acid to improve joint lubrication and reduce pain, especially in osteoarthritis.

These therapies can be effective alternatives for patients seeking to delay or avoid surgery, but their success depends heavily on proper preparation.

What to Do Before Your Orthobiologic Injection

1. Review Medications and Supplements

   Certain medications, especially nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen, can interfere with your body’s inflammatory and healing responses, both essential for orthobiologic treatments to work. Your physician may recommend stopping these medications a week before your injection. Always consult your provider before making changes.

2. Stay Hydrated and Eat Nutritiously

   Good hydration supports optimal blood flow and cellular function. In the days leading up to your procedure, aim for balanced meals rich in lean proteins, leafy greens, and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients aid tissue recovery and reduce inflammation naturally.

3. Follow Pre-Procedure Instructions Closely

   Your care team will provide tailored guidance based on your treatment type. For PRP and cell-based therapies, this may include avoiding alcohol and caffeine for at least 24 hours prior to the procedure. For viscosupplementation, ensure your joint area is clean and free of irritation or infection.

What to Avoid Before Treatment

1. Avoid Smoking and Nicotine Products

   Nicotine constricts blood vessels and impairs oxygen delivery, both of which can significantly delay healing. Quitting or reducing smoking before your injection can dramatically improve your treatment response.

2. Skip Strenuous Workouts

   Vigorous exercise right before your procedure can cause muscle inflammation or microtears, potentially affecting the quality of your PRP or cell sample. Light activity is fine, but rest your body the day before your appointment.

3. Don’t Schedule Around Illness

   If you’re feeling unwell or fighting an infection, it’s best to postpone your procedure. A strong immune system ensures your body can focus its healing energy where it’s needed most.

Setting Yourself Up for Success

Proper preparation can make a measurable difference in the outcome of your regenerative therapy. By following pre-injection guidelines and working closely with your physician, you maximize your body’s ability to heal naturally.

Regenerative medicine offers more than pain relief; it’s a partnership between science and the body’s own repair mechanisms. With the right preparation and expert care, you’ll be ready to take full advantage of the healing potential that orthobiologics have to offer.