A randomised comparative study of platelet rich plasma versus corticosteroid in the management of plantar fasciitis

Abstract

Plantar fascia by repetitive overuse or over stretching gets inflamed resulting in plantar fasciitis. In plantar fasciitis, inflammation and degeneration go hand in hand. This is one of the commonest chronic tendinopathies affecting humans. It typically affects both men and women in the age group of 40-70 years, predominantly in women. 100 patients selected for the study with 50 patients in each group. The patients were selected according to our criteria and diagnosis made on clinical examination alone. The pain status was assessed with VAS, RM score and AOFAS scoring system. The patients were followed up at 2th, 4th, 12th and 24th weeks. Post-injection pain and activity level noted. The statistical result for PRP group in mean VAS significantly decreased from 7.53 to 3.12, at six months follow up, RMS 3.26 to 1.47, and AOFAS 29.79 to 72.49. For Steroid group the VAS decreased from 7.39 to 4.23; RMS 3.12 to 2.02; AOFAS 31.30 to 59.09. PRP group showed 46% excellent, 36% very good and 18% poor outcome, Steroid group 22% excellent, 26% very good and 52% poor result. We concluded that in plantar fasciitis, intralesional PRP injection gives better pain relief and faster return to daily activities compared to Corticosteroid injection.