The Role of Rehabilitation After Regenerative and Orthobiologic Procedures for the Treatment of Tendinopathy: A Systematic Review

AIM: Significant variability exists in the literature, with no clear consensus to the optimal protocol after a regenerative procedure. Given this uncertainty, the authors systematically reviewed the literature cataloging the different variables that may influence outcomes. METHODS: Search was limited to randomized clinical trials and prospective cohort studies of regenerative procedures for the treatment of tendinopathy. Variables were predetermined, and included: cyrotherapy, pre- and post-procedure nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs use, recommendations for alternative pain medications, immobilization and duration of rest. Variables were categorized based on the influence of the intervention on the three phases of healing. RESULTS: 749 studies were assessed for eligibility, and 60 studies were included. Significant variability existed in the literature. CONCLUSION: Despite the importance of rehabilitation after regenerative procedures, there is a paucity of evidence available to guide clinicians and highlights the need for additional validation.