A comparative study between intralesional platelet rich plasma injection and extracorporeal shockwave therapy for the treatment of plantar fasciitis

Abstract Purpose Plantar Fasciitis is a widely prevalent condition and is extremely disabling if it remains unresolved. Despite many available treatment modalities, the management of recalcitrant cases is still a dilemma. We conducted this study to evaluate and compare the role of two novel modalities: Intralesional PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) injection and Extra Corporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) for the management of this condition. Methods 60 patients with a clinical diagnosis of recalcitrant plantar fasciitis were randomized into 2 groups; PRP Group (n = 30) and ESWT Group (n = 30). In PRP group patients received 3 intralesional injections of PRP and in ESWT group 3 sessions of Extra Corporeal Shockwave Therapy were administered. The Primary outcome measures were Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Score, Roles and Maudsley Index and Heel Tenderness Index (HTI). The secondary outcome measures were complications. The patients were followed up for a period of 6 months and evaluated for various scores. Results At 6 months follow-up, significant results were found only on VAS score for both groups (p-value Conclusions Both autologous PRP and ESWT can become extremely useful modalities for management of recalcitrant cases of plantar fasciitis with no known adverse effects.