What are platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections?

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) contains a concentration of platelets with growth factors and proteins. Blood consists of three primary elements: red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets. 

By isolating your concentrated platelets, the team at Foot & Ankle Premier Specialists can inject them back into the injured or damaged tissues in your foot or ankle to accelerate the healing process.

Which conditions can PRP injections treat?

PRP injections have been shown to promote healing in many types of foot and ankle injuries and degenerative conditions, including:

• Sprains
• Arthritis
• Tendinosis
• Tendonitis
• Plantar fasciitis
• Tendon injuries
• Ankle ligament injuries
• Post-operative foot or ankle pain

If you’re struggling with chronic foot or ankle pain, loss of mobility, or stunted range of motion, PRP injections are a minimally invasive solution to help you recover.

How do PRP injections work?

When you arrive at Foot & Ankle Premier Specialists, the team draws your blood from the large vein in your elbow. Then, they run it through a centrifuge to separate the PRP from the rest of your blood. Isolating your PRP ensures that it’s as concentrated as possible. This step takes about 10-15 minutes.

Once your concentrated PRP is ready, your provider numbs the site of your pain with a local anesthetic. Finally, they inject the PRP directly into your injured or damaged foot or ankle tissue. To ensure proper placement of the needle, they may use ultrasound guidance.

What happens after PRP injections?

It’s common to experience mild pain and soreness at the injection site for 2-3 days after your injection. Your provider at Foot & Ankle Premier Specialists can prescribe pain medications to ease your discomfort. You should start to feel relief from your pain within 3-4 weeks. Most people continue to improve for up to 3-6 months.

While every case is different, most people need at least three injections within six months to experience lasting relief from pain.

To learn more about PRP injections, call Foot & Ankle Premier Specialists or request an appointment online today.