Shockwave Therapy Beats Ultrasound in Treating Plantar Fasciitis
Authors: Zeyana Al-Siyabi, Mohammad Karam, Ethar Al-Hajri, Abdulmalik Alsaif
Plantar fasciitis (PF) is a common foot condition that causes pain in the heel and bottom of the foot. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is a promising treatment for PF that uses acoustic waves to promote tissue regeneration and anti-inflammation. A recent meta-analysis compared the efficacy of ESWT versus ultrasound therapy (UST) for PF.
The meta-analysis included seven studies with 369 patients. The study found that ESWT was superior to UST in terms of pain during activity, primary efficacy success rate, activity limitations, and patient satisfaction. There was no significant difference between ESWT and UST for morning and activity pain, functional impairment, and the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scale score.
The study concludes that ESWT is superior to UST for plantar fasciitis as it improves pain activity and intensity, primary efficacy success rate and activity limitations.