What is plantar fasciitis?
- Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, especially pain that is worst:
When taking the first steps in the morning
After prolonged standing or walking
After rest
It happens due to degeneration and micro-tears of the plantar fascia (a thick band of tissue under the foot), rather than ongoing infection.
What is PRP?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is a treatment made from your own blood.
A small amount of blood is taken from your arm
It is spun in a centrifuge to concentrate platelets
Platelets release growth factors that help tissue healing
The PRP is then injected into the damaged part of the plantar fascia
Because PRP comes from your own body, it is very safe.
Why PRP for plantar fasciitis?
PRP aims to stimulate healing, not just reduce pain temporarily.
PRP may be recommended if:
Symptoms last more than 3–6 months
Pain persists despite stretching, footwear changes, physiotherapy, or insoles
You want to avoid repeated steroid injections or surgery
How is the PRP injection done?
Blood is taken from your arm
PRP is prepared in the clinic
The injection is performed under ultrasound guidance
PRP is injected directly into the damaged plantar fascia
The procedure takes about 20–30 minutes
Will the injection be painful?
Local anaesthetic is usually given to the skin only
Some discomfort during injection is expected
Pain may temporarily increase for a few days after the procedure
(this is normal and part of the healing response)
What happens after the injection?
First few days
Pain and soreness are common (3–7 days)
Avoid prolonged walking, running, or jumping
Use ice and simple painkillers if needed
(avoid anti-inflammatory medications unless advised)
After 1–2 weeks
Gradual return to normal activities
Stretching and strengthening exercises are important
Improvement timeline
Improvement is usually gradual
Pain relief often begins after 4–6 weeks
Maximum benefit may take 3–6 months
How effective is PRP?
PRP does not give instant relief
It tends to provide longer-lasting improvement than steroid injections
Many patients experience:
Reduced pain
Better walking tolerance
Improved daily function
Results however vary between individuals.
How many injections are needed?
Most patients need only one injection
A second injection may be considered if improvement is partial
Are there risks?
PRP is generally very safe. Possible side effects include:
Temporary pain or swelling
Bruising at injection site
Infection (very rare)
Unlike steroid injections, PRP does not weaken the plantar fascia.
PRP vs steroid injection (simple comparison)
| Feature | PRP | Steroid |
|---|---|---|
| Onset of pain relief | Slow (weeks) | Fast (days) |
| Duration of benefit | Longer-term | Short-term |
| Tissue healing | Yes | No |
| Risk of fascia rupture | Very low | Small but real |
Is PRP suitable for everyone?
PRP may not be suitable if you:
Have active infection
Have bleeding disorders
Are on certain blood-thinning medications
Are pregnant (relative precaution)
Your doctor will advise you individually.
In conclusion
PRP is a biological treatment using your own blood
It aims to heal, not just numb pain
Best suited for chronic plantar fasciitis
Improvement is gradual but often long-lasting
