Guidance for Muscle, Tendon, and Joint Injuries
At OC Sports and Wellness, the premier sports medicine clinic in Orange County, we believe in empowering patients with clear, science-backed guidance that supports the body’s natural healing after an injury. One powerful, research-informed strategy involves using omega-3 fatty acids and low-dose aspirin at the right stage of recovery to encourage healthy inflammation resolution and tissue repair.
Why We Wait 72 Hours After an Injury
When an injury first occurs—whether to a muscle, tendon, or joint—the body immediately responds with inflammation. This early inflammatory phase is essential. It brings healing cells, delivers nutrients, and initiates the repair cascade that ultimately restores tissue strength and function.
For the first 48–72 hours, we avoid anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen. Although these medications may reduce discomfort, they can interfere with the body’s initial healing process by suppressing beneficial early inflammation.
After about Day 3, the body naturally begins transitioning from inflammation into the repair and rebuilding phases. This is the ideal time to introduce omega-3 fatty acids and low-dose aspirin to help the body complete this shift as efficiently as possible.
How Omega-3s Help
Omega-3 fatty acids—mainly EPA and DHA from fish oil—play a unique and valuable role in injury recovery. They help the body regulate inflammation in a healthy, balanced way without suppressing the natural process.
Benefits include:
- Supporting healthy inflammation levels
- Reducing excessive or prolonged swelling
- Helping the body create special “pro-healing” compounds called resolvins and protectins
- Encouraging proper tissue repair and recovery
- Potentially reducing the risk of chronic tendon or joint irritation
Recommended dose:
2–3 grams of combined EPA + DHA per day, starting 72 hours after injury.
Take with food to reduce the chance of a fishy aftertaste.
How Low-Dose Aspirin Helps
A low-dose (baby) aspirin—81 mg daily—taken alongside omega-3s helps the body activate “aspirin-triggered resolvins.” These compounds further support the natural resolution of inflammation.
It’s important to understand that this process is different from the effect of NSAIDs:
- Aspirin + omega-3s does not block or suppress inflammation.
- Instead, it helps the body complete the inflammatory phase and move smoothly into healing.
Recommended dose:
81 mg once daily for 3–7 days, beginning 72 hours after injury.
Important: Avoid low-dose aspirin if you have an ulcer, a history of bleeding, an aspirin allergy, or are taking prescription blood thinners.
Who Should NOT Use This Protocol
Avoid low-dose aspirin if you:
- Have a history of stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding
- Take anticoagulants such as Eliquis, Xarelto, or warfarin
- Have an aspirin allergy
- Have significant kidney or liver disease
- Are pregnant, unless approved by your obstetric provider
Omega-3 considerations:
Some individuals may bruise more easily when taking omega-3 supplements. If this occurs, discontinue use and contact Dr. Sunshine.
Summary
Beginning on Day 3 after an injury, the thoughtful combination of omega-3 fatty acids and low-dose aspirin can support the body’s natural healing process, reduce lingering inflammation, and help tissues transition from inflammation into repair more efficiently.
Day 1–3:
- Ice, rest, and protect the injured area.
- Avoid anti-inflammatory medications.
Day 3–10:
- Omega-3s: 2–3 g EPA/DHA daily
- Baby aspirin: 81 mg daily for 3–7 days
This gentle, natural approach works with your body—not against it—to promote healthier, more complete healing.
Questions?
Contact us at OC Sports and Wellness
We’re here to support your recovery every step of the way.
We hope this information is helpful. At OC Sports and Wellness in Orange County, we understand the importance of balancing your health with a busy lifestyle. That’s why we offer convenient options for scheduling visits, texting, or video chatting with Dr. Sunshine. Let’s work together towards your well-being! Feel free to reach out to us at 949-460-9111.
Our sports medicine practice is within driving range of Aliso Viejo, Anaheim, Brea, Buena Park, City of Orange, Costa Mesa, Cypress, Dana Point, Fountain Valley, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, Irvine Sports Medicine, La Habra, La Palma, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods, Lake Forest, Los Alamitos, Mission Viejo, Newport Beach, Placentia, Rancho Santa Margarita, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Santa Ana, Seal Beach, Stanton, Tustin, Villa Park, Westminster, and Yorba Linda. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Disclaimer: The information above is educational and not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Outcomes vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional to determine the best treatment for your condition.
