What is stem cell treatment?
With chameleon-like properties, stem cells lie in wait in our body until activated. They can act as almost any kind of cell that the body needs. Not only are stem cells able to act like other cells in the body, but they’re also capable of attracting other stem cells, activating them, and creating a chain of cells that can act as cartilage, tendons, or a multitude of other options.
At Phoenix Foot and Ankle Institute, stem cells are derived from amniotic fluid/cord blood, they’re prepared for treatment, and then they’re injected where needed to heal conditions from chronic injury to degeneration.
This procedure can be performed in a variety of ways. The highly experienced staff at Phoenix Foot and Ankle Institute is happy to discuss your options with you to decide which is best.
What is platelet-rich plasma therapy?
Extracted from whole blood, platelet-rich plasma, or PRP, contains platelets and several other elements that are crucial to your body’s ability to regenerate. Your body uses platelets for blood clotting, wound formation, and wound healing.
Your doctor injects PRP into the problem area, releasing cytokines, which in turn attract healing cells like stem cells. The stem cells then attract other stem cells, creating an environment of healthy blood flow, natural healing, and tissue regeneration.
Where is platelet-rich plasma derived from?
Platelet-rich plasma is derived from your own blood. After your blood is drawn, it is spun in a centrifuge to concentrate the platelets.
What types of injuries are treated with stem cell and PRP therapies?
Stem cell and platelet-rich plasma therapies effectively treat a number of conditions that were once addressed with invasive surgery. Healing time is much shorter with regenerative medicine therapies.
Conditions treated include:
- Tendonitis of the Achilles tendon or patellar tendon of the knee
- Serious ligament and muscle injuries
- Post-surgery healing
- Knee arthritis
- Back and neck pain
- Hip arthritis
- Shoulder arthritis
What are my treatment options?
Dr. McAlister can offer a number of treatment options for plantar fasciitis and ankle arthritis, including stem cell/platelet rich plasma (PRP) injections to decrease inflammation and chronic pain, promoting healing in injured areas.
With stem cell/PRP injections, the highly concentrated dose of platelets trigger tissue repair by delivering growth factors and attracting cells that heal inflammation and chronic swelling around your heel and joints.
This can speed up your recovery, repairing damaged tissue and stretched ligaments.
While the minimally invasive treatment may require you to use crutches and stay off your feet for about one week, most patients report feeling a significant decrease in pain within the first 10 days. Many professional athletes use regenerative medicine to heal acute and chronic sports trauma.
Call Phoenix Foot and Ankle Institute or book an appointment online today to learn more about stem cell/PRP injections.
