08/31/2015
PRP Therapy
(Platelet- Rich Plasma)
PRP injection is a growing treatment option for podiatric injuries and conditions. These injections are an in-office procedure. The entire procedure from start to finish generally takes 30 minutes or so.
Who is a good candidate for PRP?
Adults who have long standing problems with tendonitis, arthritis and plantar fasciitis and have failed previous treatment. These candidates should have sufficient symptoms to be considering surgery or repeated injections.
Blood is made of red blood cells, white blood cells, plasma and platelets.
Platelets were initially known to be responsible for blood clotting. In the last 20 years we have learned that when activated in the body, platelets release healing proteins called growth factors.
There are many growth factors with varying responsibilities, however cumulatively they accelerate tissue and wound healing, Therefore, after increasing the baseline concentration of these platelets, we are able to deliver a powerful cocktail of growth factors that can dramatically enhance tissue recovery.
The Procedure:
A small amount of your blood will be drawn and placed in a centrifuge to create the concentrated or platelet rich plasma. The injection site will be swabbed with a cleansing solution. A local anesthetic will be used to numb the skin. Multiple passes will be made with the needle through the scarred tendon tissue, if present. The PRP is then injected in multiple sites to ensure an optimal treatment area. You will be monitored for approximately 10-15 minutes after your injection.
Common treatment areas for foot and ankle:
- Achilles tendon injuries
- Peroneal/Posterior Tibialis Tendon Injuries
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Foot & Ankle Arthritis
- Chronic Ligament Injuries
* Also used in joints for mild to moderate arthritis
How long does it take for PRP to "work"?
PRP is very successful at replacing this unhealthy tissue with healthy tissue and restoring function and allowing return to normal physical activities. PRP offers no quick pain relief and has no pain relieving properties. pain gradually subsides as the injured tissues repairs itself. This can take weeks or months, but when successful, the effect is lasting. Most patients will need 2-3 treatments spaced about 6 weeks apart and most people will not feel any relief until a few weeks after the second treatment and that relief is gradual and sometimes like a roller coaster ride in that there will often be a few pain free days mixed in with a day or so of resolving soreness. Increased endurance and strength are typically reported. Maximum effects are usually seen at 6-9 months.
Call Amelia Island Foot & Ankle for more information!
904.261-3653