Our Services / Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)

What is platelet-rich plasma (PRP)?

PRP is a solution that uses your blood to ease pain and stimulate recovery. Platelets, the part of your blood that makes blood clot after a cut or other injury, make up most of the solution. 

Additionally, platelets contain healing proteins called growth factors. These growth factors are vital for healing. They can help you grow new tissue to reinforce or replace torn, worn out, or otherwise damaged tissue. After an injury, your body sends growth factors to that site to stimulate tissue repair. But, the number of local growth factors gradually decreases.

In the PRP process, the NYC Footcare PC team separates the platelets from the other parts of your blood. Then, they use specialized processing equipment to concentrate your platelets into a solution with 5-10 times more platelets (and growth factors) than your blood typically has. 

PRP injections directly into the problem area give you a tremendous influx of platelets and growth factors to stimulate recovery and symptom relief.

When might I need PRP for foot and ankle problems?

Podiatry and PRP are a natural fit because the feet and ankles are two of the most common sites for injuries and wear and tear. The NYC Footcare PC team offers PRP injections for a variety of foot and ankle problems, with some common uses including: 

• Achilles tendon injuries
• Ligament injuries
• Plantar fasciitis
• Arthritis

PRP is particularly well suited for heel pain and other chronic pain that affects day-to-day activities. In general, the NYC Footcare PC team exhausts conservative measures like custom orthotics, activity modifications, bracing, and physical therapy before recommending PRP injections. 

If you need foot or ankle surgery, the team may use PRP during the procedure or afterward to boost healing and help you recover as fast as possible.

What is the platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment process?

The team withdraws some blood from your arm or another vein and then performs the platelet concentration procedure in the office. This process usually takes a matter of minutes. The team may use ultrasound guidance to perfectly position injections in your foot or ankle during your treatment.

You may experience some burning or minor discomfort during the injections, but the whole treatment process only takes a short time.

After the injection, the team gives you specific instructions for your recovery. There’s usually no downtime needed, but you must avoid strenuous exercise for a period as the platelets go to work. You may need to wear a walking boot as well. 

PRP can have long-lasting benefits because it helps your body repair its own damaged tissue and can be a great option if you need powerful pain relief. To learn more, call NYC Footcare PC or book an appointment online today.