A randomized controlled evaluation of low-intensity laser therapy: plantar fasciitis.
OBJECTIVE
To determine whether low-intensity laser irradiation, a widespread but controversial physical therapy agent, is an effective treatment of plantar fasciitis.


METHODS
A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical study.


METHODS
A sports medicine clinic.


METHODS
Thirty-two otherwise healthy individuals with plantar fasciitis of more than 1 month's duration.


METHODS
Dummy or active irradiation with a 30 mW .83 microm GaAlAs continuous-wave infrared (IR) diode laser three times a week for 4 weeks.


METHODS
Morning pain, pain with toe walking, tenderness to palpation, windlass test response, medication consumption, and orthotic use were evaluated immediately before the study, as well as at the midpoint and end of treatment. Subjects were also evaluated at a follow-up 1 month after their last treatment.


RESULTS
No significant differences were found between the groups in any of the outcome measures either during treatment or at the 1-month follow-up. Treatment, however, was well tolerated and side effects were minimal.


CONCLUSIONS
Low-intensity IR laser therapy appears safe but, at least within the parameters of this study, is not beneficial in the treatment of plantar fasciitis.
Basford
J R
JR
Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Malanga
G A
GA
Krause
D A
DA
Harmsen
W S
WS
D000328:Adult; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005208:Fasciitis / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D005260:Female; D005534:Foot Diseases / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010147:Pain Measurement