Soft Tissue Injury Healing Timeline: What to Expect and How Long It Takes

Ashleigh Low
Mar 24
2 min read

Updated: Apr 30

Close-up of a patient’s bandaged ankle being examined in a clinical setting. Text overlay reads: 'Soft Tissue Injury Healing Timeline: What to Expect and How Long It Takes' by ĀLow Mobile Physio.

Understanding Soft Tissue Injury Recovery: Healing Stages and Timeframes

Hello and welcome! Thanks for taking a moment to read this guide on soft tissue injury recovery. Whether you’ve recently experienced a sprain, strain, or other soft tissue injury, knowing what to expect can help you feel more confident in your healing journey.

When it comes to soft tissue injury recovery, knowledge is power. Understanding what’s happening in your body allows you and your Physical Therapist to make informed decisions that support safe, effective healing.

What Affects Healing Time for Soft Tissue Injuries?

Soft tissue healing varies depending on several factors:

The severity and type of injury
Your age and overall health
The stage of tissue recovery
The guidance and exercises provided by your Physical Therapist

As your injury heals, you’ll move through different phases of recovery, each with its own timeline and focus.

Stages of Soft Tissue Healing

Here’s a general timeline outlining the common stages of soft tissue healing, from initial injury to full recovery:

Acute Phase (Inflammatory Phase): Days 1–7Swelling, pain, and inflammation occur as your body begins the healing process.
Subacute Phase (Repair Phase): Day 3 to < 3 weeksDamaged tissue starts to regenerate. Controlled movement and rehab may begin.
Remodelling Phase: 1–6 weeksCollagen fibres realign as the tissue strengthens. Progressive exercises may be introduced.
Functional Phase: 2 weeks – 2 monthsYou regain range of motion, strength, and stability in the affected area.
Return to Activity/Competition Phase: 3 weeks – 6 monthsGradual return to normal activities, sports, or training with ongoing support.