PRP & Regenerative Medicine for Chronic Foot Pain
The fast answer: PRP injects concentrated growth factors from your own blood directly into damaged tendons, ligaments, or fascia. Alternative to surgery for chronic plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, and partial ligament tears. Most patients need 1-2 injections; success rates are 65-80% in published studies.
What Is PRP?
Concentrated solution of platelets from your own blood. Draw 30-60 mL → centrifuge 15 minutes → extract platelet-rich layer (5-10x normal levels) → inject into damaged tissue under ultrasound guidance. Platelets release growth factors (PDGF, TGF-β, VEGF, IGF-1) that trigger fibroblast proliferation, collagen synthesis, and neovascularization.
When PRP Works
Strong evidence: Chronic plantar fasciitis, mid-substance Achilles tendinopathy, partial peroneal tendon tears, posterior tibial tendinopathy.
Limited: Arthritis (early), Morton’s neuroma, hallux limitus.
Doesn’t work for: Acute injuries, severe complete tears, bone-on-bone arthritis.
PRP Procedure
Stop NSAIDs 1 week before. 60-90 min office visit. Blood draw, centrifuge during numbing, ultrasound-guided injection. Mild soreness 3-7 days (healing response — don’t suppress with NSAIDs). Modified activity 1-2 weeks. Return to PT in week 2-3.
PRP Cost
$800-$1,500 per injection. Almost never insurance-covered (still classified as “experimental”). HSA/FSA eligible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PRP the same as stem cell therapy?
No. PRP uses platelets from your blood. Stem cell therapy uses cells from bone marrow or fat. PRP is much more widely available, evidence-based, and lower cost.
Is PRP painful?
Blood draw like routine lab. Injection uses local anesthetic — minimal pain. Healing response over next few days can cause moderate soreness.
How soon will I feel better after PRP?
Slightly worse first 1-2 weeks (healing response), progressive improvement weeks 3-12. Maximum benefit at 12 weeks.
How many injections will I need?
60-75% respond to single injection. 25-35% benefit from second injection 4-6 weeks later.
What’s the difference between PRP and cortisone?
Cortisone reduces inflammation but doesn’t heal tissue and weakens it with repeated use. PRP stimulates healing of underlying damage.
Book Your Appointment
📞 Call (810) 206-1402 — Same-Week Appointments Available
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Frequently Asked Questions
When should I see a podiatrist?
If symptoms persist past 2 weeks, affect your normal activity, or are accompanied by red-flag symptoms (warmth, redness, swelling, inability to bear weight).
What does treatment cost?
Most diagnostic visits and conservative treatments are covered by Medicare and major insurers. Out-of-pocket costs vary by your specific plan.
How quickly can I get an appointment?
Most non-urgent cases see us within 5 business days. Urgent cases (sudden pain, possible fracture) typically same or next business day.