First 48 Hours

Rest

Minimal load on the procedure zone. Does not mean bed rest - walking is permitted. Avoid sudden movements, lifting heavy objects, and prolonged standing. For the spine: avoid bending and twisting.

Cold

Ice through cloth for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours during the first day. Reduces swelling and discomfort. Do NOT apply ice directly to skin.

Pain Management

Acetaminophen if needed (up to 3 g/day). PROHIBITED: NSAIDs (ibuprofen, diclofenac) for at least 2 weeks after the procedure - they suppress the regenerative response. This is critical for results.

Normal Sensations

Moderate soreness at the injection site (1-3 days). Mild swelling. Sensation of heaviness in the joint. After lipoaspiration - discomfort and bruising in the abdominal area (resolves in 5-7 days).

Week 1-2

Activity

Gradual increase in daily activities. Walking without restrictions. Light housework. Office work - from day 2-3. Driving - from day 3-5 (depends on the zone).

Restrictions

Do not lift more than 5 kg. No running or jumping. Do not visit sauna, steam room, or hot bath (2 weeks). Do not swim in a pool (until the injection site heals, 5-7 days).

Medications

Continue NSAID restriction. Acetaminophen if needed. Vitamin D (2000 IU/day) and omega-3 are recommended to support regeneration.

Week 2-6

Physical Therapy (from week 2)

Begin range of motion exercises. Isometric exercises (muscle tension without movement). Light stretching. Physical therapy program is tailored individually depending on the procedure zone.

Physiotherapy (from week 3)

Magnetic therapy, laser, ultrasound therapy - stimulate regeneration. Massage of periarticular muscles (not the injection zone!). Hydrotherapy (pool) - from week 3.

Activity

Swimming - from week 2-3. Stationary cycling - from week 3. Brisk walking - without restrictions. Lifting up to 10 kg. Gradual return to physical work.

Month 2-6

Sports (from week 6)

Jogging - from week 6. Gym (moderate weights) - from week 6-8. Tennis, golf - from week 8. Contact sports - from 3 months. Full competitive load - from 4-6 months.

Regeneration

The main regenerative process continues for 3-6 months. Improvement develops gradually. Do not rush the process - stem cells need time to differentiate and form new tissue.

Follow-up Examination

Follow-up ultrasound at 3 months. Follow-up MRI at 6-12 months (for objective assessment of structural changes). Results are compared with baseline MRI.

1-3 daysReturn to office work
2-4 weeksPhysical work
6 weeksRunning and sports
3-6 monthsRecovery

Clinic and method matching — free of charge

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.

Send a request

Questions about Rehabilitation

When can I return to work?

Office work - 1-3 days. Physical labor - 2-4 weeks. Depends on the procedure area and type of work.

When can I start exercising?

Swimming - 2-3 weeks. Cycling - 3 weeks. Running - 6 weeks. Contact sports - 3 months. Full intensity - 4-6 months.

Why no NSAIDs after the procedure?

NSAIDs suppress the inflammatory cascade, which is necessary for stem cell activation and growth factors. Taking NSAIDs after regenerative treatment reduces procedure effectiveness. Avoid NSAIDs for at least 2 weeks.

Do I need physical therapy?

Recommended. Physical therapy starting from week 2 stimulates regeneration (mechanical loading directs stem cell differentiation). Additional physiotherapy from week 3. Plan is customized individually.

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.

What is needed for a preliminary assessment?

Your MRI (or CT, X-ray) report and the images if you have them, plus a short description of your symptoms and previous treatment. Send them via the form on the website — the assessment is free and without obligation: the coordinator replies within 24 hours, and the clinic physician’s preliminary opinion follows in 1–3 business days.

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.