What Is APC Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis?

APC treatment is a cutting-edge therapy for chronic plantar fasciitis, a painful inflammation of the tissues on the bottom of the foot. APC, or autologous platelet concentrate, is derived from a patient's own blood cells and is used to promote healing. Many orthopedists say although APC treatment is effective, patients should utilize more conservative measures before exploring this option.

History

• Stretching exercises

  Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common foot injuries affecting middle-aged athletes and those who spend a lot of time walking or standing at work. Traditional conservative treatments for plantar fasciitis may include specially tailored stretching exercises, physical therapy or cortisone injections. These treatments are successful about 90 percent of the time.

Significance

• APC treatment

  Patients who don't respond to other therapies may opt for APC. During APC, a health care provider will extract a small amount of a patient's blood and spin it in a centrifuge, drawing the platelets out. Physicians then inject the platelets into the patient's foot at the injury site.

Considerations

• Quick repair

  The platelets contain proteins that allow the inflamed tissue to repair itself at a much faster rate.

Benefits

• Office procedure

  APC treatment does not require hospitalization; podiatrists and other orthopedic specialists may perform the procedure in their offices. Patients won't need stitches.

Complications

• No complications

  There are no reports of any significant complications from patients who have undergone APC treatment for plantar fasciitis.