Evidence-informed regenerative treatment for chronic tendon, fascia, and joint conditions
If you’re dealing with stubborn heel, tendon, or joint pain—and you’re tired of the “rest, meds, repeat” cycle—Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) may be a reasonable next step.
PRP uses a concentrated portion of your own blood to deliver healing signals directly to the irritated or degenerative tissue. The goal is not to “numb the pain.” The goal is to support a biologic healing response in tissue that has stalled.
At Bayshore Podiatry Center in South Tampa, we use PRP as part of a structured plan: confirm the diagnosis, identify the mechanical driver, and then decide if PRP is the right tool for your stage of injury.
PRP Investment and What’s Included
$699 per injection
This includes:
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In-office PRP preparation using the Arthrex Angel system
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Ultrasound guidance when appropriate for accuracy
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A supportive same-day add-on session (MLS laser and/or one shockwave session) when clinically appropriate as part of your plan
- This is one supportive session performed at the time of injection when appropriate—it’s not a full treatment series.
Most insurance plans consider PRP an elective, non-covered service. If you plan to use HSA/FSA funds, we can provide an itemized receipt upon request.
Not All PRP Is the Same
Many people assume PRP is a commodity. It isn’t.
Results can vary based on:
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platelet concentration
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white blood cell content (leukocyte-rich vs leukocyte-reduced)
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how consistently the system separates blood components
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injection accuracy and diagnosis selection
Why we use the Arthrex Angel system
We use the Arthrex Angel because it’s designed for customization and consistency
Translation: we’re not using a “one-size-fits-all kit.” We’re trying to deliver a formulation that makes clinical sense for tendons vs joints.
Who Is a Good Candidate for PRP?
In our South Tampa practice, we typically consider PRP when:
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pain has persisted for weeks to months
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you’ve plateaued despite a structured conservative plan (rehab, load modification, footwear, sometimes orthotics)
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imaging and exam suggest tissue degeneration or a partial tearing pattern where biology may be a limiting factor
- Note: PRP works best when it’s paired with a plan that corrects the mechanical driver—otherwise you’re injecting biology into the same stress pattern that caused the problem.
Common conditions we evaluate for PRP
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Chronic plantar fasciopathy (plantar fasciitis that won’t go away)
Some high-level reviews show PRP can improve pain and function, and in many studies performs as well as or better than corticosteroid injections at longer follow-up. -
Achilles, peroneal, or posterior tibial tendon pain (case-dependent)
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Ankle arthritis (case-dependent)
The evidence in ankle OA is mixed and not as consistent as plantar fascia; we’ll be candid about whether PRP is a good bet in your specific case. -
Persistent soft tissue injuries that have stalled despite appropriate rehab and load control
Who Is Not a Good Candidate?
PRP is not a magic solution, and it’s not the right tool for every problem.
We’re less likely to recommend PRP when:
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the diagnosis is unclear (we clarify the pain generator first)
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the primary driver is a mechanical/structural conflict that PRP won’t fix (example: certain impingement or severe bony arthritis patterns)
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there’s an acute rupture concern that requires urgent evaluation and a different pathway
What to Expect at Your PRP Visit
1) Diagnosis confirmation
We start with a focused exam and imaging when indicated (X-ray and/or diagnostic ultrasound) so we’re treating the correct structure.
2) Blood draw and PRP preparation
A small amount of blood is drawn and processed in-office using the Angel system.
3) The injection
PRP is placed precisely at the target area, often using ultrasound guidance to improve accuracy.
4) Your post-injection roadmap
You should expect:
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localized soreness or a flare for a few days (common)
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gradual improvement over weeks, not days
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Aftercare and return to activity
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Most patients avoid heavy impact for a short period (case-dependent).
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We usually transition into a progressive strengthening/loading plan as symptoms allow.
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We’ll give you a clear timeline at your visit based on the structure treated and your activity goals.
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peak improvement often around the 2–3 month mark (varies by condition and tissue stage)
PRP isn’t marketed here as “guaranteed regeneration” or “cartilage regrowth.” The realistic goal is improved pain/function and better tissue biology over time, in the right candidate.
PRP FAQs
How much is PRP in Tampa?
At Bayshore Podiatry Center, PRP is $699 per injection, prepared with the Arthrex Angel system.
Is PRP covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans treat PRP as elective/non-covered. We’ll review costs up front before you proceed.
How many injections will I need?
Many patients do well with one injection. Some chronic or severe cases may benefit from a short series. We’ll give a clear recommendation after confirming diagnosis and candidacy.
Is PRP worth it?
If your goal is to address underlying tissue biology (not just mask pain), you’ve plateaued with conservative care, and you want to avoid surgery or repeated steroid injections, PRP can be a reasonable option—when you’re the right candidate and the plan also corrects the mechanical driver.
Schedule a PRP Consultation in South Tampa
If you want a clear plan and honest expectations, we’ll confirm the diagnosis and tell you candidly whether PRP fits your case.
Call: (813) 877-6636 or Schedule Online
Serving South Tampa including Hyde Park, Palma Ceia, Bayshore, and Davis Islands.
Clinical references
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Heel Pain—Plantar Fasciitis: Revision 2023 (JOSPT).
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PRP vs other modalities for plantar fasciitis: 2024 systematic review/meta-analysis (Herber et al.).
