[Shock wave therapy for recalcitrant plantar fasciitis with heel spur: a prospective randomized placebo-controlled double-blind study].
OBJECTIVE
Efficacy of low-energy shock wave therapy for recalcitrant plantar fasciitis.


METHODS
32 patients were randomly assigned into real and placebo ESWT groups, treatment comprised 1000 impulses of 0,08 mJ/mm 2 at 14 kV (OssaTron OSA 120, HMT AG, Switzerland) in 12 cases repeated after six weeks or placebo (energy-absorbing foil). Follow-up evaluation (19, 32 and 48 wks.) included specific questionnaire, clinical-functional examination and measurement of plantar pressure while walking (Emed AT-4. pedograph, Novel GmbH, Munich). Examiner and patients were blinded.


RESULTS
88 % of the treatment group were pain free or had good results. None of the placebo group were pain free, 33.3 % had good results (Roles and Maudsley Score). The treatment group showed significantly better outcome for morning and resting pain, pressure stamp-tolerance and walking ability. Pedography did not show a clear correlation between pain relief and load pattern.


CONCLUSIONS
The results of this study corroborate the value of ESWT for recalcitrant plantar fascitis. As a non invasive technique with low side effects, it can complement the row of conservative treatments.
Abt
T
T
Fachbereich Humanmedizin, Freie Universität Berlin, Germany.
Hopfenmüller
W
W
Mellerowicz
H
H
D004311:Double-Blind Method; D036981:Fasciitis, Plantar / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D036982:Heel Spur / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans; D008096:Lithotripsy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010147:Pain Measurement; D011446:Prospective Studies; D019233:Retreatment