Tendonitis occurs when the tendons in your body become inflamed because of overuse, an acute injury, or another reason. Different types of tendonitis can occur in your foot and cause pain, tenderness, and swelling, significantly impacting your ability to participate in sports and other physical activities. Whether you are an avid athlete or simply enjoy staying active, it's essential to understand your injury and possible treatment options, such as platelet-rich plasma therapy.
What Is Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy?
PRP therapy is a form of regenerative medicine that treats different types of foot tendonitis. The procedure involves extracting a small blood sample from you, which is subsequently subjected to centrifugation to obtain a concentrated solution of platelets and growth factors. The concentrated PRP is then injected into the affected area, activating the body's inherent stem cells and healing processes.
PRP therapy is a safe and minimally invasive option for individuals experiencing foot or ankle tendonitis. Some benefits of PRP therapy include the following:
- Fast appointments. PRP treatment takes about 30 minutes.
- Little risk. PRP therapy does not include medication and does not require surgery. Accordingly, you do not risk suffering medication or surgical side effects.
- Saving time and money. You may require surgery if other treatments, such as PRP therapy, don't work.
What Types of Foot Tendonitis Does PRP Therapy Treat?
Different types of foot and ankle tendonitis that may benefit from PRP therapy include:
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis is a common overuse injury of the Achilles tendon, the largest and strongest tendon in the human body. The condition is characterized by inflammation and degeneration of the Achilles tendon, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness in the back of the ankle. It typically occurs in individuals who engage in activities that involve repetitive stress on the tendon, such as running, walking, and other activities. It is important to promptly address Achilles tendonitis to avoid further damage and chronic pain.
Posterior Tendonitis
Posterior tendonitis, also known as posterior tibialis tendonitis, is a condition that occurs when the posterior tibial tendon is inflamed. This tendon runs along the inside of the ankle and plays a crucial role in supporting the arch of the foot. Posterior tendonitis can develop gradually because of overuse or repetitive stress, or it can occur because of a sudden injury. Symptoms include pain, tenderness, and swelling over the back of the ankle, pain when flexing your foot or standing on the ball of your foot, and pain when you move your ankle. It is important to seek prompt medical attention if you suspect you may have posterior tendonitis to prevent further damage and ensure optimal recovery.
Extensor Tendinitis
Extensor tendinitis is a condition that occurs when the tendons that attach the muscles on the top of the foot to the bones become inflamed. This can cause pain, tenderness, and swelling in the affected area and may be accompanied by difficulty moving or flexing the foot. Various factors, including repetitive motions or trauma to the foot, can cause extensor tendinitis. Individuals who engage in activities that involve repeated foot flexion, such as running, dancing, and ice skating, may be at an increased risk of developing this condition. Proper diagnosis and management of extensor tendinitis can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further injury.
Flexor Tendonitis
Flexor tendonitis, also known as flexor halluces longus tendonitis, is a condition that results from inflammation of the tendons that flex the toes and foot downward. This inflammation can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area. Flexor tendonitis is commonly caused by overuse and repetitive motion, though it can also result from a sudden injury. Individuals who engage in activities that involve repetitive foot flexion, such as running and dancing, may be at an increased risk of developing this condition. Treatment can alleviate symptoms, prevent further injury, and help you get back to the sports and activities you enjoy.
Anterior Tibial Tendonitis
Anterior tibial tendonitis is a condition that occurs when the tendons that attach the muscles on the front of the leg to the foot become inflamed. This can cause pain, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area and may be accompanied by difficulty moving or flexing the foot. Individuals who engage in activities that involve repeated foot dorsiflexion, such as running, jumping, or kicking, may be at an increased risk of developing this condition. However, proper diagnosis and treatment of anterior tibial tendonitis can help you heal.
Is PRP Therapy Right for Me?
PRP therapy is a good option for many people with different forms of foot and ankle tendonitis. After a thorough examination, an experienced podiatrist at North Florida Foot & Ankle Center will explain all of your advanced treatment options so that you can make an informed decision about what to do next.