Comparison of platelet-rich plasma and steroid injection in the treatment of plantar fasciitis

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and steroid injections in patients diagnosed with plantar fasciitis.

Methods: A total of 50 patients with chronic plantar fasciitis were included in the study and divided into 2 groups. In the PRP group (n=25), PRP taken from the patients' blood was activated using calcium chloride and injected in a single dose. In the steroid group (n=25), a single dose methylprednisolone with local anesthetic injection was given. Clinical evaluation was made using the American Foot and Ankle Score (AFAS) and the visual analog scale (VAS).

Results: No complications were seen in any patients. Mean AFAS was 85.5 ± 4.2 at 6 weeks and 90.6 ± 2.6 at 6 months in the PRP group and 75.3 ± 4.8 and 80.3 ± 4.7, respectively, in the steroid group (p<0.001). The difference in the mean VAS between the PRP group (2.4 ± 0.8 and 1 ± 0.8) and the steroid group (4 ± 1.1 and 2.6 ± 0.9) at the 6th week and 6th month was statistically significant (p<0.001). Changes in AFAS and VAS scores were significantly higher in the PRP group (p<0.001).

Conclusion: The application of PRP appears to be more effective than steroid injection in terms of pain and functional results in the treatment of chronic plantar fasciitis.