Our Idaho Podiatrists Explain Why Innovative PRP Therapy May be the Solution to Your Foot Issues
Whether it's a nagging sports injury that won't heal or the persistent ache of plantar fasciitis, you're desperate for relief. Traditional treatments have left you frustrated, searching for an answer that doesn't just mask the pain but actually promotes recovery.
At Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle, we offer medical management and groundbreaking treatment options, such as PRP therapy, that harness your body's natural rehabilitative power to address various foot issues. Here’s why it may help you.
Understanding PRP Therapy
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a state-of-the-art treatment that uses the healing properties of your blood to stimulate tissue repair and regeneration. The process begins with a simple blood draw from your arm. This blood is then placed in a centrifuge, which spins rapidly to separate the platelet-rich plasma from other components.
The concentrated platelets in PRP contain growth factors that play a crucial role in healing. When injected into the affected area of your foot, these growth factors stimulate cell regeneration and promote the formation of new, healthy tissue. This process can accelerate healing, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain, providing a better outcome.
Another benefit of PRP therapy for treating chronic conditions and acute injuries is that it’s a minimally invasive procedure with little to no downtime or discomfort.
Which Foot Issues May Respond to PRP Therapy?
Various studies indicate that PRP therapy shows promising results in treating a wide range of foot and ankle conditions. While we'll discuss this in more detail during your consultation, here's a brief overview.
Plantar Fasciitis
A 2023 meta-analysis of various high-quality studies compared PRP to other treatments for plantar fasciitis. The analysis concluded that PRP therapy resulted in superior pain relief and functional improvement compared to corticosteroid injections, especially six months beyond initial treatment.
The researchers stated that PRP therapy might be effective for plantar fasciitis because it provides:
- Targeted healing. PRP delivers a concentrated dose of growth factors directly to the injured plantar fascia tendon.
- Comprehensive approach. It addresses both tissue degeneration and inflammation.
- Long-term efficacy. By promoting actual tissue repair, PRP offers more durable results than treatments that only provide symptomatic relief.
Achilles Tendonitis
Studies also shed new light on how PRP therapy provides benefits for ankle injuries such as Achilles tendonitis. A 2023 systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research found that PRP injections significantly improved pain scores and functional outcomes in patients with Achilles tendinitis compared to placebo or other conservative treatments.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that this injury presents differently for each person, depending on key causes such as sports trauma, overuse, lack of stretching, or incorrect footwear. At Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle, our podiatrists take great care with your Achilles tendonitis examination and diagnosis and will explore whether PRP therapy is right for you.
Ankle Sprains
These injuries can be major setbacks for athletes and active individuals, but some studies indicate PRP therapy may help reduce pain and inflammation, as well as:
- Improve function
- Promote new tissue formation
- Improve long-term ligament healing
Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Poor circulation, dry skin, and neuropathy can all lead to the development of ulcers or sores on the feet. These wounds are particularly dangerous for people with diabetes as they can quickly become infected and lead to serious complications. PRP therapy shows promise in promoting wound healing. Research suggests that the growth factors found in blood platelets prompt a better healing response due to significantly improved tissue regeneration compared to standard wound care.
Schedule Your Consultation About PRP Therapy With Our Idaho Podiatrists
At Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle, we’re proud to offer complete and individualized care to all our Treasure Valley patients, featuring various treatment options, innovative technologies and, most importantly, clear and personable communication with doctors who listen and work with you to help you feel better. We'll consider your specific symptoms, medical history, and treatment goals to create a personalized care plan that addresses your unique needs. PRP therapy is just one of many diagnostic tools and advanced services we provide to help you discover new solutions to resolve your foot and ankle problems.