There is a treatment available for possible Achilles tendon injuries and may be referred to as platelet-rich plasma therapy, or P.R.P. injections. It is described as using the patients blood which is mixed with plasma cells and growth factors and then injected into the affected tissue. Recent research has suggested that the health of the tissue may be improved by rapid healing inspired by growth factors. If you are afflicted with this type of injury, it may be beneficial to undergo standard treatment options before considering P.R.P. injections. This type of treatment may cause the injections to be severely painful in addition to being costly. It’s advised to consult with a podiatrist to discuss what treatment options are right for you.

If you are suffering from a foot condition, contact Dr. Harry I. Zirna of Lockport Foot Care, PLLC. Dr. Zirna will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is PRP?

Platelet Rich Plasma, or PRP, is blood taken from a patient and spun in a centrifuge, concentrating the amount of platelets. The plasma is then re-injected into the site of injury or damage, assisting the body in repairing damage to muscles, tendons, ligaments, and tissue. PRP helps the body speed up its healing process.

Uses of PRP

Injuries affecting the foot sometimes don’t heal properly because of poor blood circulation. The healing time slows down, and recovery time is affected by poor blood supply. PRP injections will speed up recovery and resolve this issue.

Treatment

PRP is the first regenerative treatment for damaged muscles, tendons, and ligaments. No surgery needed. It is only applied with an insertion of a needle.

Ultrasound – An ultrasound is needed for proper placement of the platelets.

Injection – When the first injection is received, the patient will return to the doctor in about 2 to 3 weeks and monitor the recovery process.

Recovery time – Some people respond to treatments differently. Therefore, depending on your condition, the doctor will make any remaining decisions on how many more injections are needed, or if any additional ones are even required.

Benefits

One may be able to avoid major surgery, and recovery time will be cut down. PRP injections also avoid creating scar tissue and damage to the area. Risks are also very low using PRP as a treatment. There is no risk of rejection, contracting a disease from using another person’s blood, or infection.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Lockport and Medina, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.