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.

Introduction: Although the application of low-energy Extracorporeal shock waves application (ESWA) to treat musculoskeletal disorders is controversial, there has been some limited, short-term evidence of its effectiveness for the treatment of chronic plantar fasciitis. Objective: The aim of this prospective study is to explore the effect of Extracorporal shock waves in patients with chronic planter faciitis. Methodology & results: In this prospective study 70 heels in 62 patients with chronic planter faciitis in whom conventional conservative treatment consisting of nonsteroidal anti-inßammatory drugs, heel cup, orthoses and/or shoe modiþcations, local steroid injections have failed, were treated with low energy ESWA. Standard radiographs of the affected heels were obtained before ESWA to document the existence of a calcaneal heel spur. Pre and post therapy subjective and objective scoring systems are being used to know the functional outcome (SF36 Health Survey score, Short Form McGill Pain Questionaire, American Orthopaedic foot and ankle society Hindfoot Scale, Visual analogue Pain score). Patients were reviewed at 6 and 12 weeks post treatment. At followup pain was decreased by 70% to 90% on the visual analog scale (VAS) and the comfortable walking time had increased signiþcantly. There were no reported side effects. Conclusion: This study indicates that in patients with chronic plantar fasciitis, the ESWA.provide a good pain relief and a satisfactory clinical outcome