From the Research
Procedure for Injecting Therapeutic Substance into Heel Fat Pad
- The procedure for injecting a therapeutic substance into the heel fat pad is typically performed under ultrasonographic guidance to ensure accurate placement of the injection 1, 2.
- The use of ultrasound guidance allows for real-time visualization of the heel fat pad and surrounding structures, enabling the practitioner to target the specific area of interest.
Gauge of Needle Used for Platelet-rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
- The gauge of needle used for PRP therapy is not explicitly stated in the provided studies.
- However, it is common practice to use a small-gauge needle (typically 25-30 gauge) for injections into the heel fat pad to minimize discomfort and reduce the risk of complications 3, 4.
Key Considerations for PRP Therapy
- PRP therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment for chronic plantar fasciitis, with significant improvements in pain scores and functional outcomes 3, 4, 2.
- The use of PRP therapy has been compared to other treatments, such as corticosteroid injections and autologous blood injections, with varying results 3, 2.
- It is essential to note that the efficacy and safety of PRP therapy may depend on various factors, including the specific protocol used, the quality of the PRP preparation, and the individual patient's response to treatment 4, 2.