Background: Plantar fasciitis (PF) is a common clinical painful degenerative disorder associated chronic inflammation that if inadequately treated could led to heel pain and foot dysfunction; it has a negative impact on individuals' quality of life and work. Various therapeutic modalities such as shockwave therapy (ESWT) and low-level laser therapy (LLLT) are used, but their efficacy is not inclusive
Objective: assess the efficacy of shockwave and laser therapy for plantar fasciitis.
Methods: A randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on 80 patients with chronic planter fasciitis, plus calcaneal spur, their ages range is 40-60 years old. They were randomly divided into four equal groups. Group A received ESWT and LLLT in addition to selected physical therapy program received treatment with ESWT with parameter 2000 impulses, 15 Hz, 2 bar and LLLT , Group B received ESWT with parameter 2000 impulses, 15 Hz, 2 bar in addition to selected physical therapy program , Group C received LLLT in addition to selected physical therapy program and Group D received selected physical therapy program which consist of stretching planter fascia and ice massage only, all groups schedule was twice a week for three weeks.
Results: All groups showed significant reductions in pain and FFI scores . Group A showed significant differences compared to Groups B, C, and D (p<0.001), but no differences were observed among Groups B, C, and D (p>0.05).
Conclusion: Shockwave unlike laser alone is high effective in reducing foot pain and improving foot function in plantar fasciitis patients