Publication:

Functional outcomes of platelet rich plasma injections in plantar fascitis

Background The study was conducted to analyse the clinical outcomes following a single injection of platelet rich plasma, produced using autologous blood by standard double centrifugation technique in patients with plantar fasciitis who have not had relief using conservative methods.

Methods Between June 2013 and June 2015, 26 consecutive patients (Mean age 45.92) (11 males/15 females) who had symptoms for a minimum of 3 months and had failed conservative management options such as rest, anti-inflammatories and physiotherapy were given a single injection of PRP in the medial calcaneal tubercle.

Results The outcomes were measured using Visual analogue scale and Foot function index at pre injection, and at 1, 6 and 12 months post injection and results tabulated. All patients reported an improvement in VAS and FFI scores consistently. One superficial infection was encountered.

Conclusions Single injection of platelet rich plasma improves pain and function in the foot in patients suffering from plantar fasciitis when conservative management has failed. The synergism between various autologous growth factors may play a role in tendon healing.