Platelet-Rich Plasma Injection: A Natural Solution to Foot and Ankle Pain

If you're dealing with persistent foot or ankle pain, you've probably tried rest, anti-inflammatory medications, orthotics, and maybe even physical therapy. But what if your own body had the power to heal you? 

At West Side Foot Care, here on the Upper West Side of Manhattan in New York City, Philip Messenger, DPM, offers platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, an innovative treatment that uses your own blood to alleviate pain and speed up your recovery. 

If you want a minimally invasive solution that taps into your body’s natural healing powers, PRP might be exactly what you need.

What is PRP?

Platelet-rich plasma is a concentrated solution that we make here in our office from your own blood. We draw a small amount of blood from your arm, spin it in a centrifuge to separate the components, and extract the platelet-rich layer. 

This layer is loaded with growth factors and proteins that stimulate tissue repair and regeneration. When Dr. Messenger injects it into the injured or inflamed areas of your foot or ankle, like a torn ligament or a painful tendon, PRP helps your body heal faster.

Conditions we treat with PRP

You might benefit from PRP therapy if you’re struggling with:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Heel pain
• Bunions
• A stress fracture
• An ankle sprain
• A neuroma
• Achilles tendinitis
• Flat feet

PRP is a good step forward if you’ve been dealing with pain that hasn’t resolved with other treatments. Dr. Messenger assesses your condition and determines if you’re a good fit for the therapy.

What to expect during a PRP appointment

From start to finish, the procedure takes less than an hour, and most of our patients tolerate it  well. With PRP, we:

• Draw a small amount of blood from your arm
• Place the blood in a machine called a centrifuge, which separates the platelets, plasma, and red blood cells
• Combine the platelets and plasma to form platelet-rich plasma
• Numb the area
• Carefully inject the PRP into the affected area

In most cases, you can walk right out of the office after the procedure. You can expect some soreness, but it’s mild and typically resolves within a day or two.

Why choose PRP?

PRP therapy is a good option if you’re looking for a nonsurgical treatment option. Because it uses your own blood, the risk of side effects is very low. 

Consider these benefits:

• Faster recovery from soft tissue injuries
• Reduced inflammation and pain
• Improved mobility
• Minimal downtime

Many of our patients experience considerable improvement in pain and function within a couple weeks of treatment. Depending on your condition and goals, Dr. Messenger may recommend a series of injections over several weeks.

If you’re tired of being sidelined by foot or ankle pain, PRP therapy can deliver the long-term relief you need. Call today to schedule a consultation.