To Evaluate the Efficacy of 780 nm Low Level Laser Therapy for the Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis in South Western Ethiopia

Abstract

Objective: By definition plantar fasciitis (PF)is an inflammation of the plantar fascia. Present study evaluates the effects of 780 nm Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)in the treatment of plantarfasciitis &establishes the status of LLLT as a cost effective modality for the treatment of plantar fasciitis. Method: 80 subjects were selected on the basis of the inclusion and exclusion criteria andwere recruited randomly to either 780nm LLLT (experimental group) or sham irradiation (placebo control group). Result: Overall results showed significant difference in Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Foot Function Index (FFI) andDorsiflexion (DF) from 0 week to 4th week inGroup A indicating that the rate of improvement in Group A was more than Group B. Hence concluding the positive contribution of therapeutic modality for pain relief, increasing functional ability and increasing dorsiflexion Range of Motion(ROM) Conclusion: The present study finds that LLLT at the parameters shown is a safe, potent and cost effective conservative treatment method for the patients having plantar fasciitis.