Comparison of Platelet-Rich Plasma and Prolotherapy for Plantar Fasciitis

Overview

This randomized controlled trial evaluates the comparative effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy and prolotherapy in patients with plantar fasciitis. Both interventions are commonly used regenerative injection therapies intended to improve pain and functional outcomes in patients who do not respond adequately to conventional conservative treatments. Participants diagnosed with plantar fasciitis will be randomly assigned to receive either PRP injection or prolotherapy. The results of this study aim to identify the more effective injection therapy for improving clinical outcomes in patients with plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common musculoskeletal disorder characterized by chronic heel pain resulting from degeneration and microtears of the plantar fascia at its calcaneal insertion. It frequently affects individuals who perform prolonged standing, repetitive walking, or high-impact activities. The condition may lead to persistent discomfort, functional limitation, and reduced quality of life. Initial management typically includes conservative measures such as rest, stretching exercises, orthotic devices, physiotherapy, and pharmacological pain management. Although many patients respond to these treatments, a subset of patients continues to experience chronic symptoms requiring additional therapeutic options. Regenerative injection therapies have emerged as alternative treatments for chronic plantar fasciitis. Platelet-rich plasma therapy involves preparing a concentrated platelet suspension from autologous blood and injecting it into the affected region. The platelets release multiple growth factors that may stimulate tissue regeneration, promote collagen synthesis, and enhance healing of the damaged plantar fascia. Prolotherapy is another injection-based therapy that uses an irritant solution, most commonly hypertonic dextrose, injected at the site of ligament or tendon attachment. The solution induces a controlled inflammatory response that stimulates fibroblast proliferation and connective tissue repair, which may strengthen the affected structures. Despite the increasing use of PRP therapy and prolotherapy, the comparative effectiveness of these treatments remains uncertain. Evidence comparing the two techniques is limited, and determining their relative benefits may assist clinicians in selecting the most appropriate treatment for patients with persistent plantar fasciitis. This study is designed as a randomized controlled trial in which eligible participants will be allocated to either PRP therapy or prolotherapy. Clinical outcomes will be assessed during follow-up to determine the effectiveness of each intervention in reducing pain and improving functional status. The findings of this trial may provide evidence to guide treatment decisions for patients with plantar fasciitis who do not respond to conventional conservative management.