Comparison of Platelet-Rich Plasma and Corticosteroid Injections for Chronic Plantar Fasciitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Plantar fasciitis is a common and debilitating foot condition, with varying treatment options and inconsistent outcomes. The objective of this study was to assess and compare the effectiveness of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections and corticosteroid injections in treating persistent plantar fasciitis. METHODS: In this study, a total of 70 patients suffering from chronic plantar fasciitis were randomly divided into two groups, i.e., one receiving PRP injections (n=35) and the other receiving corticosteroid injections (n=35). The visual analog scale (VAS) was used to assess pain outcomes, while the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score was used to assess functional status. Patients were assessed before the injection and then followed up at 15 days, one month, three months, and six months after the injection. RESULTS: The baseline VAS and AOFAS scores were similar between the two groups. However, the PRP group showed significantly greater improvements in VAS and AOFAS scores compared to the corticosteroid group at the one-month, three-month, and six-month follow-ups (p<0.05). The PRP group had a higher proportion of patients with mild or moderate pain and better functional outcomes at later time points. CONCLUSIONS: Autologous PRP injections are superior to corticosteroid injections in terms of long-term pain alleviation and functional improvement for patients suffering from chronic plantar fasciitis. Platelet-rich plasma should be regarded as a feasible therapeutic choice for this condition, especially in individuals who have not shown improvement with conservative treatment.