Evaluating the Therapeutic Efficacy of Platelet-Rich Plasma as a Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis

Abstract Background: Plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain, affects middle-aged individuals, athletes, and people with repetitive foot strain. It often impairs daily activities and quality of life. While conventional treatments, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroids, provide temporary relief, they rarely address underlying pathology. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), with its regenerative potential, has emerged as a promising alternative. Objectives: This study evaluates the therapeutic efficacy of PRP in reducing pain and improving function in plantar fasciitis patients. Materials and Methods: This prospective study included 40 patients with plantar fasciitis who met the inclusion criteria of pain persisting for over 3 months and a baseline Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score ≥7. PRP was prepared via double centrifugation to ensure a platelet count >1,000,000/µL. Injections were administered using the peppering technique, followed by sterile bandaging. Pain was assessed using the VAS at baseline and follow-ups at 1, 3, and 6 months. Data were analysed using repeated measures analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey tests. Results: The mean VAS score reduced significantly from 8.68 ± 0.50 at baseline to 3.70 ± 2.60 at 1 month, 1.80 ± 2.30 at 3 months, and 1.82 ± 2.32 at 6 months ( P < 0.001). The most substantial improvement occurred within the first month. No significant differences in pain reduction were noted across age or gender groups. Conclusion: PRP demonstrated significant and sustained pain relief in plantar fasciitis, with marked improvements within the first month post-injection. These findings align with existing literature and support PRP as a viable treatment. However, the study’s small sample size and lack of a control group highlight the need for larger randomised trials.