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. 2020 Apr;15(2):301–325.

Table 1.

Descriptions of the four phases of rehabilitation, in general after a orthobiologic procedure.

Phase 1: Begins during post-injection day 0 to 3, and the goal is protection of the injected region and pain control. Immobilization and/or complete unloading (non-weigh bearing status) of affected joint can be avoided in the lower extremity, however, a sling may be considered for shoulder and unloading brace for knee OA.
Partial weight bearing with crutches for AVN of hip and use of a walking boot for ankle/foot pathologies should be utilized. Gentle range of motion out of the immobilizing device should be performed passively and actively (to tolerance) for short durations (2-3 minutes), multiple times per day (3 times).
Phase 2: enconroasses days 4 to 14 with the goal of increasing tissue tolerance to loading and discontinue immobilization/unloading devices and slowly progress to weight bearing and avoid shear stress. Continue active and passive range motion activities for 3-5 minutes/session, 3-5 times a day.
Begin sub maximal isometric exercises for affected tendons/joints, begin progressive loading for lower extremity pathologies, unloaded cycling, and core stability exercises.
Proceed to next level if pain score is at or under a 2 out of 10 on a visual analog scale.
Phase 3: encompasses weeks 3-6 with the goal of full range of motion to affected joint, increase tissue tolerance to loading and improve strength/endurance. For knee and Hip OA can walk as much as tolerated and start jogging. Biking with hills, and experience no more than 2/10 mild pain.
For shoulder OA can start upper body light exercises along with modified yoga and biking
Phase 4: encompasses weeks 7+ with the goal of return to full activities that were being performed prior to procedure. No strict restrictions are advised, gradual return to full functional activity is recommended. The target for 100% of desired activities is at 8-12 weeks.