The effect of topical wheatgrass cream on chronic plantar fasciitis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the efficacy of a topical wheatgrass cream for improving pain and function in patients with chronic plantar fasciitis.


METHODS
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.


METHODS
Eighty participants with chronic plantar fasciitis were randomly assigned to a treatment group (wheatgrass cream) or a control group (placebo cream). All participants applied a cream twice daily for 6 weeks. Follow up was conducted at 6 and 12 weeks.


METHODS
Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for daily first-step pain and the Foot Health Status Questionnaire (FHSQ) for overall foot function. Secondary measures of foot posture, calf muscle strength and range of ankle dorsiflexion were also assessed.


RESULTS
No significant differences were found between groups with respect to main outcomes of first-step pain or foot function at any time. Both groups improved significantly from baseline to 6 weeks, and these improvements were maintained at 12 weeks.


CONCLUSIONS
The topical application of wheatgrass cream is no more effective than a placebo cream for the treatment of chronic plantar fasciitis.
Young
Mark A
MA
Musculoskeletal Research Centre, School of Physiotherapy, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia.
Cook
Jill L
JL
Webster
Kate E
KE
D000287:Administration, Topical; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D036981:Fasciitis, Plantar / Q000188:drug therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010147:Pain Measurement; D008517:Phytotherapy; D010936:Plant Extracts / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014908:Triticum
D010936:Plant Extracts