By Dr. Colin Mizuo, Board-Certified Foot and Ankle Surgeon at Pearl Foot & Ankle
In recent years, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy has emerged as one of the most promising treatments for chronic pain, injuries, and degenerative conditions affecting the foot and ankle. Platelets play a crucial role in the body’s healing process by promoting tissue regeneration, reducing inflammation, and stimulating new cell growth. As a minimally invasive, regenerative therapy, PRP harnesses the body’s natural healing power to repair damaged tissues, reduce inflammation, and promote faster recovery.
PRP therapy is a non-surgical treatment that can be performed in-office. It involves using a patient’s own blood to create a concentrated solution of platelets and growth factors. The process involves drawing a small sample of blood from the patient, processing the blood in a centrifuge to separate the platelets from other components, and injecting the concentrated PRP solution into the injured or affected area. Ultrasound guidance will be used to ensure precise placement of the injection. By delivering high concentrations of growth factors directly to the site of injury or pain, PRP can accelerate the healing process and improve overall recovery outcomes.
PRP therapy is highly effective in treating a variety of foot and ankle conditions, particularly those involving chronic pain, inflammation, or soft tissue injuries. At Pearl Foot & Ankle, Dr. Colin Mizuo commonly uses PRP therapy to treat the following conditions: Plantar Fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia ligament becomes inflamed due to overuse or injury. PRP therapy can help reduce inflammation, promote tissue repair, and provide long-lasting relief for patients with chronic plantar fasciitis. Chronic tendon injuries, such as Achilles tendonitis, peroneal tendinitis or posterior tibial tendinitis, can cause persistent pain and limit mobility often due to repetitive strain or overuse. PRP therapy can help repair damaged tendons, reduce inflammation, and restore normal function. PRP injections can help stimulate healing in the damaged tendon, reduce pain, and improve mobility. Ankle Sprains involve damage to the ligaments that support the ankle joint. While most sprains heal with conservative treatment, chronic instability can develop if the ligaments don’t fully recover resulting in altered biomechanics across the ankle joint. Patients with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in the foot and ankle may benefit from PRP therapy. The anti-inflammatory properties of PRP can help reduce pain, improve joint function, and slow the progression of joint degeneration.
The PRP therapy process at Pearl Foot & Ankle starts with the following steps: During your initial consultation, Dr. Mizuo will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and determine if PRP therapy is the right treatment for you. If it is determined that you are a candidate for PRP therapy, a follow-up appointment will be scheduled for the in-office procedure.
At Pearl Foot & Ankle, Dr. Colin Mizuo offers PRP therapy as part of a comprehensive approach to treating foot and ankle conditions to promote faster recovery time and long-term healing allowing patients to return to their daily activities and sports sooner. With offices in Portland, Beaverton, and Gresham, OR, patients across the region can benefit from this innovative treatment to reduce pain, enhance mobility, and avoid invasive surgeries. If you’re suffering from chronic foot or ankle pain, PRP therapy could be the solution you’ve been looking for. Contact Dr. Colin Mizuo at Pearl Foot & Ankle to learn more about this innovative treatment and schedule your consultation today.
Commonly Asked Questions:
Q: Is PRP therapy painful?
A: The PRP injection itself may cause mild discomfort, but most patients find the procedure to be well-tolerated. Numbing agents can be used to minimize any pain during the injection.
Q: How long does it take to see results?
A: Patients typically notice improvement within a few weeks, with continued progress over several months. The full effects of PRP therapy can take 3-6 months to become apparent.
Q: Are there any side effects?
A: PRP therapy is generally considered safe, as it uses the patient’s own blood. Side effects are minimal but may include temporary swelling, soreness, or bruising at the injection site.
Q: How many treatments are needed?
A: The number of PRP treatments required varies depending on the condition being treated. Most patients only require 1 injection, but certain conditions may require 2-3 injections.