Comparing Two Protocols of Shock Wave Therapy for Patients With Plantar Fasciitis

Overview

The goal of this clinical trial is to compare the efficacy of two distinct shock wave therapy protocols and their impact on improving function and reducing pain in individuals with plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain that affects millions worldwide. The key questions the study aims to address are: How effective is each shock wave therapy protocol in enhancing functional ability without pain in patients with plantar fasciitis? Does either protocol offer a significant benefit over the other in terms of pain relief and functional improvement after a course of six treatment sessions? Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups and will engage in the study as follows: Undergo six sessions of shock wave therapy with parameters specific to their assigned group. Complete questionnaires assessing foot function and pain levels. Participate in evaluations before, during, and after the treatment to monitor their progress. The three groups in the comparison are as follows: Group A will receive shock wave therapy at a higher frequency and specific intensity, with a set number of impulses. Group B will undergo therapy with a different frequency and intensity level but will receive the same number of impulses. Group C, the control group, will receive a sham therapy, mirroring the treatment experience without the therapeutic effects to serve as a baseline for comparison. The study is anticipated to delineate a more effective protocol for treating plantar fasciitis with shock wave therapy. The findings may contribute to enhanced treatment guidelines, potentially resulting in faster recovery times for patients. The participation of individuals in this research will offer valuable insights that could inform future therapeutic strategies for managing plantar fasciitis

This randomized controlled trial is designed to evaluate the efficacy of two distinct shock wave therapy protocols in treating plantar fasciitis, a condition that causes heel pain and can severely impact daily activities. The aim is to discern which protocol is more effective at improving functional abilities and reducing pain. Plantar fasciitis typically manifests as a sharp pain at the bottom of the heel, often affecting individuals who engage in high-impact activities such as running. With the variability in treatment approaches, shock wave therapy has been recognized as a promising, non-invasive treatment method. The study seeks to address the current gaps in research by identifying the most beneficial treatment parameters of shock wave therapy. Participants will be randomly allocated to one of three groups: Group A will receive shock wave therapy with high-frequency settings. Group B will receive shock wave therapy with low-frequency settings but higher intensity. Group C will serve as a control group, receiving sham shock wave therapy to provide a baseline for comparison. All groups will partake in a consistent regimen of physical therapy exercises, ensuring that any differences in outcomes are attributable to the shock wave therapy parameters. The inclusion of these exercises is crucial as they contribute to recovery by stretching and strengthening the affected area. To maintain the integrity of the trial, participants will be blinded to the shock wave therapy parameters they receive, thereby reducing potential bias. The study will feature comprehensive assessments at various points: before the intervention, halfway through the sessions, upon completion of the therapy, and during a follow-up phase to assess the durability of the effects. The trial is anticipated to yield significant insights into the effectiveness of different shock wave therapy protocols, which will be instrumental in developing more refined treatment guidelines. Ultimately, these findings could enhance the quality of life for individuals with plantar fasciitis and guide clinical practice for the treatment of associated heel pain.