After a sports injury, the question is not whether to return to sports, but how to do it safely and effectively. Below we compare traditional rehabilitation methods with a regenerative method.

Meniscus tear

Degenerative tears are usually treated with exercise; running resumes after 6–12 weeks. After partial meniscectomy, return usually takes 6–8 weeks, after meniscus repair 4–6 months. Injections may reduce pain but do not restore the meniscus.

ACL rupture

After reconstruction, return to pivoting competition takes at least 9–12 months; returning earlier increases the risk of re-rupture. Some patients without marked instability are suited to non-surgical treatment with intensive rehabilitation: in the KANON trial about half did not need reconstruction over 5 years. Injections do not reunite a torn ligament.

Achilles tendinopathy

The basis is a calf strengthening programme for 12 weeks or longer. Shockwave therapy and PRP help some patients. Return to running usually takes 3–6 months; recurrences are possible.

Rotator cuff injury

For tendinopathy and small degenerative tears, exercise often gives results comparable to surgery. A fresh traumatic tear in a young athlete should be assessed quickly: repair works better in the first weeks. After cuff repair, recovery takes 4–6 months or longer.

When you can return to sport

Based on criteria, not the calendar: no pain or swelling, full range of motion, muscle strength at least 90% of the healthy side, functional tests passed. The timelines above are approximate and depend on the severity of the injury.

The role of injections

PRP or corticosteroid injections may ease pain and help with rehabilitation, but they do not shorten the biological healing time of ligaments and tendons. PRP is not on the WADA prohibited list; any medication should be agreed with the team physician in advance. More in the sports section.

Who it is not suitable for and possible risks

Contraindications

  • Active infection — at the injection site or systemic, with fever.
  • Active cancer or ongoing chemotherapy.
  • Blood clotting disorders or a low platelet count. Anticoagulants are discussed with the physician.
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding — the procedure is usually postponed.
  • A corticosteroid injection into the same area in recent weeks.
  • A complete tendon or ligament rupture with loss of function — surgical repair is usually needed.

Possible risks

  • Pain and swelling at the injection site for 1–3 days.
  • Bruising where blood or fat tissue is taken.
  • Rarely, infection. The procedure is therefore performed under sterile conditions with ultrasound or X-ray guidance.
  • The effect may be absent or smaller than expected.

If any of these apply to you, mention it in your request. The coordinator will check with the clinic physician whether treatment is possible. Contact a coordinator.

Scientific evidence

Studies of regenerative methods show mixed results. Clinic physicians rely on research including the following:

  1. Ardern CL et al. Return-to-sport outcomes at 2 to 7 years after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery. Am J Sports Med, 2012.
  2. Andia I et al. Platelet-rich plasma for muscle injury and tendinopathy. Sports Med Arthrosc Rev, 2013.

Next steps: Treatment methods · Treatment cost · How treatment in Germany is organised

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Describe your case and attach your MRI report. We will identify clinics that use the relevant methods and forward your request to them. No obligation; we reply within 24 hours.

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Frequently asked questions

When can I return to sport after an injury?

Based on criteria, not the calendar: no pain or swelling, full range of motion, muscle strength at least 90% of the healthy side and passed functional tests. After ACL reconstruction this is usually not before 9 months.

Can I train through pain?

Mild discomfort up to 2–3 out of 10 that settles by the next morning is usually acceptable. Sharp pain, swelling or limping means reducing load and seeing a physician.

How can I lower the risk of re-injury?

Increase load gradually (no more than about 10% a week), do a neuromuscular warm-up, strengthen the thigh and core muscles and do not skip recovery.

How does RegenPAS help organise treatment?

RegenPAS is a patient service centre in Munich, not a clinic. We review your images and symptoms and send a request to several partner clinics at once. Clinics that can accept you send their own conditions and price; prices differ between clinics, and you choose the option that suits you. The coordinator replies within 24 hours, and a clinic physician’s preliminary opinion follows in 1–3 business days. We then arrange the appointment, visa invitation, interpreter, transfers and accommodation. Treatment decisions are made by the clinic physician. Contact a coordinator.

How much does treatment cost and how long do I need to stay in Munich?

The cost depends on the method, the diagnostics needed and the clinic itself: prices differ between clinics. We request offers from several clinics and send you their conditions and quotes so you can compare. Price guidance is on the treatment cost page. For an outpatient procedure, 2–3 days in Munich are usually enough: examination, procedure and follow-up visit.