FAQ: Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is an innovative treatment gaining attention in regenerative medicine—and it’s now making strides in podiatry. At Goldsmith Podiatry, we’re seeing growing interest in PRP for treating foot and ankle conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and chronic heel pain. Since PRP is still relatively new in the field of foot care, many patients have questions about how it works, what to expect, and whether it’s right for them. In this FAQ, we answer the most common questions about PRP therapy to help you make informed decisions about your foot and ankle health.

Is PRP Therapy Stem Cell Therapy?

It’s similar, but not quite the same. PRP is derived from your own blood and contains a concentrated number of platelets, which are rich in powerful growth factors and healing proteins. It works by drawing from your body’s existing healing response.

True stem cell therapy, on the other hand, involves using actual living stem cells (which can develop into many different cell types) harvested from sources like bone marrow or adipose tissue. So, while PRP can use your body's own local cells, it doesn’t introduce entirely new living stem cells.

Is PRP a Miracle Cure for Everything?

While PRP is a powerful tool, it's not a magic bullet that instantly fixes all ailments. It’s a sophisticated method designed to accelerate your body's natural healing processes, especially for conditions that have struggled to heal on their own due to chronic inflammation or poor blood supply.

It works best for specific issues like chronic tendonitis (think plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis), certain ligament injuries, and some forms of joint pain. It amplifies healing; it doesn't create new tissue from scratch or reverse severe, long-standing degeneration overnight.

Are PRP Results Immediate?

Because PRP therapy works with your body's natural healing, it takes time. You might experience an initial increase in pain or soreness after the injection before improvement begins.

Full benefits can typically take several weeks to a few months to become noticeable as the tissues gradually repair and regenerate. PRP can vary depending on the severity of the injury.

Is PRP Painful and Invasive Like Surgery?

PRP therapy is a minimally invasive, in-office procedure that’s vastly different from surgery. The process involves a simple blood draw, similar to a routine lab test. That blood is then processed in a centrifuge, and the concentrated PRP is injected into the injured area.

While you might feel some discomfort during the injection itself, the recovery period is just like any other shot you receive at the doctor’s office.

Is All PRP Preparation the Same?

Not all PRP are created equal. The concentration of platelets, the presence or absence of white blood cells, and the method used to activate the platelets can vary between different preparation systems and protocols.

Your feet are more than just your foundation—they're messengers of your overall health. If you notice any of the symptoms above, don’t wait. Contact Goldsmith Podiatry today at (212) 877-1002 to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Howard Goldsmith, Dr. Rosanna Troia, or Dr. Kristina T. Ruff. We're here to help you stay one step ahead of foot-related health problems—because healthy feet support a healthy you.