Comparative Effectiveness of Iontophoresis vs. Low Dye Taping in Plantar Fasciitis: A Systematic Review

Plantar fasciitis (PF) is a frequent cause of heel pain, affecting approximately 10% of the population. Conservative treatments such as iontophoresis and low-dye taping (LDT) are widely used to alleviate symptoms, often providing short-term pain relief.

This systematic review aims to compare the efficacy of iontophoresis (with 5% acetic acid, 0.4% dexamethasone, dexamethasone and lidocaine, or placebo) versus low-dye taping (LDT) in treating plantar fasciitis. Additionally, it evaluates the combined effect of iontophoresis and LDT application.

A systematic search was conducted in Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library databases, following PRISMA guidelines and the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were predefined. Two independent reviewers screened and extracted data from eligible studies, assessing their quality. Included studies comprised randomized controlled trials, non-randomized clinical trials, case-control studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses. The review protocol was registered with PROSPERO (registration number: [blind for review]).

Eight studies published between 1997 and 2018 were included, providing a moderate level of evidence. Both iontophoresis (with the specified agents) and low-dye taping, alone or combined, were associated with statistically significant reductions in pain scores compared to baseline.

Iontophoresis and low-dye taping are effective conservative interventions for plantar fasciitis, with their combined use also showing beneficial effects. These treatments can be considered viable options to reduce pain in patients with plantar fasciitis.