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Torn tendons, muscles and ligaments plague athletes in many sports. In an attempt to help heal wounded tissue, some athletes, both amateur and professional, turn to platelet rich plasma (PRP) therapy. From heel pain to osteoarthritis, PRP has proven to be effective in speeding the healing time of injuries to allow athletes to continue to perform in their given sport without the pain. If your heel causes you discomfort or pain, it is important to begin treatment immediately. Your podiatrist is the best source for treating and protecting your heel from further damage. What is Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy? Platelet rich plasma (PRP) therapy offers a promising solution to accelerate healing of tendon injuries and osteoarthritis naturally without subjecting the patient to significant risk. Platelet rich plasma therapy is a way for patients to use their own body to help heal their injuries faster and better. There is nothing mysterious about PRP. There are no drugs or chemicals; only concentrated parts of a person's own blood. Beginning PRP therapy starts with a simple blood draw. It is then spun in a special machine that separates the red blood cells from the plasma that contains platelets. Platelets are a natural source of growth factors, substances that help repair tissue. Our own plasma has growth factors that will help stimulate healing and cellular growth. Once separated, the platelet blood is then injected back into the patient's body at the site of injury. Experts state that a shot of PRP can accelerate healing of recent injuries by 30 to 50 percent. PRP therapy can take place in your podiatrist's office, but can also be performed in an operation room. It is a safe and effective way to eliminate pain from plantar fasciitis and any other foot and ankle injuries. What is Plantar Fasciitis (Heel Pain)? Both heel pain and heel spurs are associated with an inflammation of the band of fibrous connective tissue (fascia) running along the bottom of your foot, from the heel to the ball of the foot. This type of pain is most common among athletes who run and jump a lot, causing a great amount of pain. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia is strained over time beyond its normal extension. This causes the soft tissue fibers of the fascia to tear or stretch at points along its length, leading to inflammation, pain and possibly the growth of a bone spur where it attaches to the heel bone. Inflammation may become irritated by shoes that lack appropriate support, mainly in the arch area and by the constant irritation associated with an athletic lifestyle. Resting may provide temporary relief, but when you resume walking you may experience a sudden elongation of the fascia band, which stretches and pulls on the heel. As you walk the pain may lessen or even disappear, but that may just be a false sense of relief as the pain often will return after prolonged rest or extensive walking. If pain and other symptoms of inflammation persist, you should limit your normal daily activities and contact your DeKalb podiatrist immediately. Your podiatrist will examine the area of your foot causing you pain. Early treatment is vital in maintaining the health of your feet and keeping your best foot forward this summer season.
Sean Hartmen writes for leading DeKalb, Hinsdale, Buffalo Grove, Libertyville and Sycamore podiatrists, Dr. Dr. Neil Levin and Dr. Steven Sharlin. Offering services in orthotics, ingrown toenails, bunions, heel pain and an array of other services, these podiatrists in DeKalb, IL, are committed to providing patients with the best in quality foot and ankle health care.
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