Abstract
The aim of this study is to explore the effect of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) in patients with chronic planter faciitis. In this prospective study 70 heels in 62 patients with chronic planter faciitis in whom conventional conservative treatment consisting of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, heel cup, orthoses and/or shoe modifications, local steroid injections have failed, were treated with low energy ESWT. Patients were reviewed at 6, 12 and 24 weeks post treatment. At follow-up there was significant decrease in pain on the visual analog scale (VAS) (p=0.27), with significant improvement in pain score (p=0.009) and in functional score (p< 0.001). The comfortable walking distance has increased significantly. There were no reported side effects. This study indicates that in patients with chronic plantar fasciitis, the ESWT provide a good pain relief and a satisfactory clinical outcome.
The abstracts were prepared by Emer Agnew. Correspondence should be addressed to Irish Orthopaedic Association, Secretariat, c/o Cappagh National Orthopaedic Hospital, Finglas, Dublin 11, Ireland.
