Platelet Rich Plasma or PRP
What is PRP?
PRP stands for Platelet-Rich Plasma. It is created by drawing a small amount of your blood, concentrating the platelets, and injecting them into the injured area under ultrasound guidance.
Platelets contain growth factors that help regulate inflammation and stimulate tissue repair. In chronic tendon and ligament injuries, the body often fails to complete the healing process. PRP is designed to restart and support that healing cascade.
What makes our approach different?
Successful PRP treatment depends on more than the injection itself.
Our approach includes:
- Ultrasound-guided precision injection Careful patient selection based on exam and imaging Diagnosis-specific rehabilitation protocols Controlled progressive loading to protect healing tissue Return-to-sport planning when appropriate
- Tendon healing requires the correct mechanical environment. Overstretching too early can impair recovery. Under-loading can limit adaptation. Every PRP treatment is paired with a structured protocol to guide safe progression.
Conditions Treated:
Ankle Arthritis
Chronic ankle arthritis, generally mild can be treated with PRP injections as well.
View Ankle Arthritis PRP Rehab Protocol -->
Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy
Pain at the heel insertion of the Achilles tendon where controlled loading is critical to avoid compression-related irritation.
View Insertional Achilles PRP Rehabilitation Protocol →
Noninsertional Achilles Tendinosis
Chronic mid-substance Achilles tendon pain that has not responded to therapy.
View Post-PRP Rehabilitation Protocol →
Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus
Cartilage and bone injuries within the ankle joint where PRP may be used as part of nonoperative or adjunctive treatment.
View Osteochondral Injury PRP Rehabilitation Protocol →
Plantar Fasciitis
Chronic heel pain that has not improved with stretching, orthotics, or other nonoperative measures.
View Plantar Fasciitis PRP Rehabilitation Protocol →
Syndesmosis (High Ankle Sprain) Injuries
Selected partial ligament injuries that may benefit from biologic support during healing.
View Syndesmosis PRP Rehabilitation Protocol →
Frequently Asked Questions
What Conditions Can We Treat??
What to Expect
PRP injections are performed in the office.
The visit includes:
- Blood draw and platelet concentration
- Ultrasound-guided injection
- Discussion of post-injection rehabilitation
- Mild soreness for several days is common and expected.
- Improvement is gradual and typically occurs over 6 to 12 weeks as the tissue responds to progressive loading.
Is PRP Right for You?
- PRP is often most effective for:
- Chronic tendon injuries lasting longer than 3 months
- Partial ligament injuries Athletes seeking to optimize tissue healing
- Patients hoping to avoid surgery
PRP does not replace surgery when there is structural instability or advanced joint degeneration. A comprehensive evaluation and imaging review are necessary to determine candidacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PRP covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans do not cover PRP injections. Our office can discuss costs during consultation.
How many injections are needed?
Many conditions respond to a single injection, though some cases may benefit from a series.
When can I return to running or sports?
Return to sport depends on the diagnosis and response to treatment. Most patients progress over 8 to 12 weeks under a structured protocol.
Is PRP better than cortisone?
Cortisone reduces inflammation and may provide temporary relief. PRP is intended to stimulate healing rather than simply suppress symptoms.
Athlete-Focused Biologic Care
As a foot and ankle sports surgeon, Dr. Strasser treats competitive and recreational athletes who need to return to activity safely and efficiently. PRP is one of several biologic tools used strategically as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Every injection is paired with a clear rehabilitation roadmap to support recovery.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are dealing with persistent Achilles pain, plantar fasciitis, a high ankle sprain, or cartilage injury that is not improving, PRP may be an option.
Call (615) 936-7846 to schedule an evaluation in Nashville or Franklin, Tennessee.