Evolving Treatments in Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is painful and needs to be treated. Because our tendons are vital to foot movement, healing is slow because we continue to walk and move. Standard treatments for plantar fasciitis include foot taping, NSAIDs, night splinting, and physical therapy. However, new and emerging treatments are opening the doors to faster healing. These new therapies include PRP injections, amniotic injections, and MLS laser treatment.
PRP Injections
PRP stands for Platelet Rich Plasma. This type of plasma uses the abundance of platelets to naturally stimulate healing. Platelets signal stem cells to start repairing damage in the affected ligament. PRP is created by drawing blood which goes through a centrifuge to separate the plasma. The plasma is then injected into the foot. Patients generally need to be non-weight bearing for a few days following the injection. While this is one of the most beneficial and effective treatments available, it is often one of the most expensive as it is not covered under insurance.
Amniotic Injections
Amniotic injections are working wonders for plantar fasciitis. These injections can be used alone or combined with stem cells, PRP injections, and other therapies. An amniotic injection will help tendons and tissues by synthesizing certain chemicals (cytokines and growth factors) that the body uses during healing. Amniotic injections also work against inflammation and the formation of scar tissue. Like PRP injections, this therapy can be expensive due to lack of insurance coverage.
MLS Laser
Laser therapy is safe, effective, and can greatly speed healing time. It does not require the use of drugs or surgery, there are no known side effects, and it is quick and convenient. The MLS laser is specially designed to treat conditions such as plantar fasciitis. The laser is fully robotic and placed above the skin allowing the healing energy to penetrate tissue. Each treatment lasts about eight minutes and there is little to no sensation during the appointment.
Most patients experience positive results with between one and three treatments, with the average full course being seven to ten treatments. The effects of MLS Laser Therapy are cumulative; therefore, expect to see improvement as you proceed through your treatment plan. It is critical that once you start, you complete the course of treatments recommended by your doctor or symptoms are likely to reoccur.
There are many factors that determine what the right course of treatment will be for you. You and your podiatrist will discuss the severity of your condition, your goals for healing, the time and budget available for treatment, and together you will determine the best path. Call the FAAWC today to schedule your consultation.
