Blog

The idea behind PRP injections is to use the body’s natural healing ability to repair ligaments, muscles, and tendons. It is an abbreviation for Platelet Rich Plasma, and can possibly help to reduce inflammation. The process of receiving these types of injections begins with extracting a blood sample, followed by placing it in a centrifuge. After it is spun to extract the platelets, it is injected into the affected site. Research has indicated that the healing process may be accelerated in foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis and certain types of arthritis. It is suggested that daily activities are limited for approximately the first week to ensure a proper recovery time. If you are suffering from chronic foot pain, please consult with a podiatrist who can determine if receiving PRP injections is the correct treatment for you.

If you are suffering from a foot condition, contact The podiatrists of Grand Haven Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is PRP?

Platelet Rich Plasma, or PRP, is blood taken from a patient and spun in a centrifuge, concentrating the amount of platelets. The plasma is then re-injected into the site of injury or damage, assisting the body in repairing damage to muscles, tendons, ligaments, and tissue. PRP helps the body speed up its healing process.

Uses of PRP

Injuries affecting the foot sometimes don’t heal properly because of poor blood circulation. The healing time slows down, and recovery time is affected by poor blood supply. PRP injections will speed up recovery and resolve this issue.

Treatment

PRP is the first regenerative treatment for damaged muscles, tendons, and ligaments. No surgery needed. It is only applied with an insertion of a needle.

Ultrasound – An ultrasound is needed for proper placement of the platelets.

Injection – When the first injection is received, the patient will return to the doctor in about 2 to 3 weeks and monitor the recovery process.

Recovery time – Some people respond to treatments differently. Therefore, depending on your condition, the doctor will make any remaining decisions on how many more injections are needed, or if any additional ones are even required.

Benefits

One may be able to avoid major surgery, and recovery time will be cut down. PRP injections also avoid creating scar tissue and damage to the area. Risks are also very low using PRP as a treatment. There is no risk of rejection, contracting a disease from using another person’s blood, or infection.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Grand Haven, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A stress fracture is a small crack in a bone that can cause swelling and pain that increases over time. Stress fractures in the feet and ankles are notoriously common among runners and athletes who participate in sports that require frequent running, such as soccer. A stress fracture can take weeks or even months to heal, often requiring a walking boot, brace, or crutches to keep weight off of the affected foot. This can sideline an athlete from both their sport and activities of daily living. Fortunately, there are things that you can do that might prevent these injuries. When running, increase the amount of miles that you run slowly, as running too much too soon puts enormous strain on your muscles and bones. You may want to take days off from your sport or exercise routine to rest your feet. It is also recommended that you get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, and avoid processed sugars, which can increase inflammation in the body. If you suspect you may have a stress fracture or want to learn more about what you can do to prevent this injury, consult with a podiatrist today.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact The podiatrists from Grand Haven Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Grand Haven, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.

Warts on the bottom of the feet, known as plantar warts, are a common condition. About 25% of people get plantar warts at some point in their lifetime, often during childhood or adolescence. Plantar warts are caused by the human papillomavirus, also known as HPV, and can be highly contagious. To prevent plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot in damp public areas, such as community swimming pools or water parks. Wear clean cotton socks and change them regularly. Inspect your feet and take extra precautions if you notice a cut or scratch, as these may make you more susceptible to infection. If you or someone close to you has a plantar wart, it is suggested to keep it covered with a bandage in order to avoid spreading the virus to others. To avoid the risk of contagion or infection, it is recommended that you consult with a podiatrist right away.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact The podiatrists from Grand Haven Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Grand Haven, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.