At Stride Forward Podiatry in Boca Raton, Dr. Martha Holzworth offers advanced regenerative treatments such as Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) to help patients heal naturally and return to pain-free movement.
PRP therapy uses your body’s own healing cells to reduce pain, repair tissue, and support recovery for a variety of foot and ankle conditions.
What Is Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a treatment made from your own blood. A small blood sample is taken and spun in a special machine to concentrate healing platelets and growth factors. These platelets are then injected into the painful or injured area of your foot or ankle.
Because PRP comes from your own body, the risk of allergic reactions is extremely low.
How Does PRP Help Healing?
Platelets contain natural growth factors that help your body repair damaged tissue. When PRP is injected into an injured area, it may help:
- Reduce inflammation and pain
- Stimulate tissue repair
- Improve blood flow
- Support tendon, ligament, and joint healing
- Encourage long-term recovery rather than temporary relief
PRP works by enhancing your body’s natural ability to heal rather than masking symptoms.
Foot and Ankle Conditions PRP May Help Treat
| Plantar Fasciitis (Heel Pain) | PRP is commonly used for chronic heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis, especially when rest, orthotics, and physical therapy have not worked. Many patients experience gradual but lasting pain relief and improved walking ability. |
| Achilles Tendon Pain | PRP may be helpful for Achilles tendinitis or tendinopathy, particularly when combined with rehabilitation and strengthening exercises. Results vary by patient, and Dr. Holzworth will determine if PRP is appropriate for your condition. |
| Ankle Arthritis | PRP can help reduce pain and stiffness from ankle osteoarthritis, potentially improving joint movement and delaying more invasive procedures. |
| Foot Arthritis | PRP may relieve pain and improve function in arthritic foot joints, especially in earlier stages of arthritis. Patients often notice improved comfort and mobility over time. |
| Osteochondral Lesions of the Ankle | PRP may be used to support healing of cartilage and bone injuries in the ankle, either through injections or as a healing booster after surgical treatment. |
| Plantar Plate Injuries | PRP is not yet a standard treatment for plantar plate tears, but in some cases it may be considered as part of a broader treatment plan. Surgical repair remains the most established option for severe tears. |
What to Expect During a PRP Treatment Appointment
The PRP process is typically completed in about 30–60 minutes and includes:
- Drawing a small sample of your blood
- Processing the blood in a centrifuge
- Preparing the platelet-rich solution
- Cleaning and numbing the treatment area
- Injecting PRP into the targeted foot or ankle region, often using ultrasound guidance
Some patients need only one injection, while others may benefit from a short series of treatments depending on the condition.
Is PRP Safe?
PRP is considered very safe because it uses your own blood.
Possible temporary side effects include:
- Mild soreness
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Short-term increase in discomfort
Serious complications are rare.
Recovery and Healing Timeline
Healing varies from person to person. Some patients feel mild soreness for a few days after treatment.
You may be advised to:
- Limit strenuous activity temporarily
- Avoid anti-inflammatory medications
- Continue physical therapy or stretching
- Return for follow-up visits
PRP results develop gradually, often improving over weeks to months, with many patients noticing the best results around 2–3 months or later.
Important Things to Know Before PRP
- PRP is not a guaranteed cure
- Results differ based on condition severity and healing response
- It works best when combined with rehabilitation or supportive care
- Insurance coverage varies, and PRP is often self-pay
- Proper preparation and technique matter — choose an experienced provider
At Stride Forward Podiatry, Dr. Holzworth ensures personalized treatment plans designed around your goals and condition.
Frequently Asked Questions About PRP for Foot & Ankle
PRP results build gradually. Many patients begin noticing improvement within a few weeks, with stronger results over 2–6 months.
Costs vary depending on treatment needs, but PRP is typically an out-of-pocket expense since insurance often does not cover it.
Many patients benefit from 1–2 injections, though some conditions may require more.
Yes. Light walking is usually allowed, but heavy exercise or impact should be avoided for about one week.
Avoid anti-inflammatory medications before and after treatment, as they may interfere with healing. Your doctor will guide you.
Cortisone can provide faster short-term relief, while PRP often supports longer-lasting healing.
In many cases, stretching and strengthening exercises improve results and support long-term recovery.
PRP is very safe. Most side effects are mild and temporary, such as soreness or swelling.
PRP may be recommended if you have chronic foot or ankle pain that hasn’t improved with other treatments. A personalized evaluation is the best way to decide.
Schedule a PRP Consultation in Boca Raton
If you’re dealing with heel pain, tendon injuries, arthritis, or chronic foot and ankle pain, PRP may be a natural, non-surgical solution.
Stride Forward Podiatry
Dr. Martha Holzworth – Foot & Ankle Specialist (Boca Raton, FL)
