Role of platelet-rich plasma versus corticosteroid injection in the treatment of plantar fasciitis: A comparative study

Abstract

Introduction: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is promoted nowadays as an ideal autologous biological blood-derived product. It enhances wound healing, bone healing, tendon healing and is currently being widely used. Aims and Objectives: A prospective cohort study was conducted to assess the efficacy of autologous PRP injection and to compare it with corticosteroid injection in the treatment of plantar fasciitis (PF). Materials and Methods: Fifty patients were included in the study and divided into two groups. Group I (25 patients) received PRP injection and Group II (25 patients) were given steroid injection. Patients were clinically assessed at different intervals. Functional outcome was evaluated on the basis of the visual analog scale (VAS) and foot and ankle ability measure (FAAM) scores. Plantar fascia thickness was assessed pre- and post-injection by ultrasound. Results: PRP and corticosteroid injection groups at the initial visit had VAS score of 8.86 and 8.60, respectively, which was reduced to 1.52 and 3.10 at the end of 6 months. The PRP and corticosteroid injection groups at the initial visit had FAAM score of 29.2 and 30.8, respectively, which increased to 84.2 and 68.3 at the end of 6 months. After injection, the PRP group had a significant reduction (34.80%) in the thickness of plantar fascia as compared to corticosteroid group (29.54%). Conclusion: Treatment of PF with PRP extract reduces pain and significantly increases function, exceeding the effect of steroid on long-term follow-up.