Evaluating the Therapeutic Efficacy of Platelet-Rich Plasma as a Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain, affects middle-aged individuals, athletes, and people with repetitive foot strain. It often impairs daily activities and quality of life. While conventional treatments, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids, provide temporary relief, they rarely address underlying pathology. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), with its regenerative potential, has emerged as a promising alternative.

This study evaluates the therapeutic efficacy of PRP in reducing pain and improving function in plantar fasciitis patients.

This prospective study included 40 patients with plantar fasciitis who met the inclusion criteria of pain persisting for over 3 months and a baseline Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score ≥7. PRP was prepared via double centrifugation to ensure a platelet count >1,000,000/µL. Injections were administered using the peppering technique, followed by sterile bandaging. Pain was assessed using the VAS at baseline and follow-ups at 1, 3, and 6 months. Data were analysed using repeated measures analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey tests.

The mean VAS score reduced significantly from 8.68 ± 0.50 at baseline to 3.70 ± 2.60 at 1 month, 1.80 ± 2.30 at 3 months, and 1.82 ± 2.32 at 6 months (P < 0.001). The most substantial improvement occurred within the first month. No significant differences in pain reduction were noted across age or gender groups.

PRP demonstrated significant and sustained pain relief in plantar fasciitis, with marked improvements within the first month post-injection. These findings align with existing literature and support PRP as a viable treatment. However, the study's small sample size and lack of a control group highlight the need for larger randomised trials.