Efficacy of Platelet Rich Plasma vs Corticosteroid Injection in Chronic Plantar Fasciitis - A Comparative Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.71393/0rc8z019Keywords:
Plantar Fasciitis, Platelet-Rich Plasma, Corticosteroid, Injection, AOFAS ScoreAbstract
Introduction: Chronic plantar fasciitis is a prevalent and often disabling condition characterized by persistent heel pain, significantly affecting daily activities and quality of life. It commonly results from repetitive strain and microtears of the plantar fascia. Corticosteroid injections have long been used as a conventional treatment due to their anti-inflammatory effects. However, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has recently gained attention as a regenerative approach that may promote tissue healing rather than merely reducing inflammation.
Aims & Objectives: The primary aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of PRP injections and corticosteroid injections in patients suffering from chronic plantar fasciitis. Outcomes were evaluated using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score to assess functional improvement and the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) to measure pain intensity.
Materials & Methods: This comparative study included 50 patients diagnosed with chronic plantar fasciitis. Participants were randomly divided into two groups: one group received three PRP injections (n=25), while the other received corticosteroid injections (n=25). Clinical outcomes were measured at baseline, 1 month, and 3 months post-treatment using AOFAS and VAS scoring systems.
Results: Both treatment groups showed significant improvement from baseline values. At 1 month, the corticosteroid group demonstrated superior outcomes, with higher AOFAS scores and lower VAS scores compared to the PRP group. This trend continued at 3 months, with corticosteroid-treated patients maintaining better functional and pain scores. All observed differences at follow-up intervals were statistically significant (p<0.05).
Conclusion: Corticosteroid injections provided significantly greater short-term benefits in reducing pain and improving function compared to PRP injections in patients with chronic plantar fasciitis.
