A Narrative Literature Review on the Utilization of Platelet-Rich Plasma for Treating Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis, which is extensively documented, is a common cause of heel pain in adults. Recent research has indicated that the illness is not only associated with inflammation but also degeneration. In addition to traditional treatments, non-surgical minimally invasive options, such as localized platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection, have shown promise in the management of plantar fasciitis. PRP is a concentrated solution containing a high concentration of biologically active molecules such as growth factors and cytokines, which are essential for regulating cellular processes including growth, differentiation, angiogenesis, and motility. Recent years have seen a surge in research investigating the efficacy of PRP in treating plantar fasciitis. However, previous studies on the use of PRP for plantar fasciitis have been limited by inadequate evidence, inconsistent methodologies, lack of standardization in PRP composition, and other methodological limitations. The objective of this study was to conduct a literature review on the research progress in PRP therapy for treating plantar fasciitis. The review encompassed an analysis of the active mechanism of PRP, its comparative advantages and disadvantages in relation to commonly employed treatments, and identified potential avenues for further investigation in this field.