Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy in Thousand Oaks
Platelets are components of the blood that play a key role in clotting and healing. Platelet rich plasma (PRP) therapy concentrates platelets from your own blood and injects them into an injured area to stimulate healing and reduce swelling and inflammation. At Performance Foot & Ankle, our podiatrists in Thousand Oaks, CA offer PRP therapy for athletes and active adults, as well as anyone with a foot or ankle injury who wants to heal faster and more completely.
Request an AppointmentHow Does PRP Therapy Work?
PRP therapy uses your body’s own healing resources. The process is simple and performed in our office:
- Blood draw – A small amount of blood is drawn, usually from the arm.
- Processing – The blood is placed in a centrifuge, which spins it to separate and concentrate the platelet rich plasma.
- Injection – The concentrated PRP is injected into the injured tendon, ligament, or joint, where growth factors in the platelets go to work repairing tissue.
Because PRP comes from your own blood, the risk of an allergic reaction or rejection is very low.
Foot and Ankle Conditions Treated With PRP
In podiatry, PRP therapy is commonly used to treat:
- Arthritis and joint pain
- Ankle sprains and strains
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles and other tendinitis
- Cartilage tears
- Sports injuries
- Chronic tendon and ligament injuries that have not healed with other treatments
Benefits of PRP Therapy
- Uses your body’s own natural healing factors
- Minimally invasive, in-office procedure
- Promotes long-term tissue repair rather than masking pain
- May reduce the need for surgery
- Helps damaged tissue grow stronger and more resilient
- Little downtime compared with surgical treatment
What to Expect After PRP Treatment
Some patients notice relief within the first few days, but it usually takes several weeks to a few months to experience the full benefits as the tissue regenerates. Mild soreness at the injection site is common for a short time. Your podiatrist may recommend a period of reduced activity, a supportive boot, or physical therapy to protect the treated area while it heals.
PRP therapy is often combined with other treatments such as MLS laser therapy and custom orthotics for optimal results. Your podiatrist may use diagnostic ultrasound to evaluate the injury and guide treatment.
Our knowledgeable and experienced podiatrists can answer your questions about PRP and help you decide whether it is the right choice for you. Call (805) 273-1415 to schedule a consultation with Performance Foot & Ankle.
Frequently Asked Questions About PRP Therapy
What is platelet rich plasma therapy?
PRP therapy is a regenerative treatment that concentrates platelets from your own blood and injects them into injured tissue to stimulate healing and reduce inflammation.
Is PRP therapy safe?
Yes. Because PRP is made from your own blood, the risk of allergic reaction or rejection is very low. Mild soreness at the injection site is the most common side effect.
How long does it take for PRP to work?
Some patients notice improvement within a few days, but the full healing benefits typically develop over several weeks to a few months.
How many PRP injections will I need?
Many patients need only one injection, while others benefit from a series of two or three treatments depending on the injury.
Can PRP help plantar fasciitis?
Yes. PRP is commonly used for chronic plantar fasciitis that has not responded to conservative treatments, helping to repair the damaged tissue.
Is PRP a good option for athletes?
PRP is popular with athletes because it promotes natural healing of tendons and ligaments and may help them return to training sooner.
Is PRP therapy covered by insurance?
Coverage for PRP therapy varies and many plans consider it elective. Our team can discuss costs and help you check your benefits.