Title: Comparison of Effectiveness of Various Foot Orthoses in Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis

Authors: Dr Chethan C, Dr Rajendra Sharma, Dr Diganta Borah, Dr Ajay Gupta

 DOI:  https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v5i1.17

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of University of California and biomechanics laboratory (UCBL) shoe insert, Silicone heel cup, Medial arch support with heel in treatment of plantar fasciitis.

Study Design: Prospective randomized study.

Setting: Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation of a tertiary care hospital.

Sample Size: Hundred and five patients of age groups (18 - 60 years), with diagnosis of unilateral or bilateral plantar fasciitis.

Methodology: Subjects were randomly assigned into three equal groups. 35 to group A received UCBL shoe insert, 35 to group B received silicone heel cup, 35 to group C received medial arch support with heel pad as therapeutic method and were followed up at 1, 3 and 6 months.

Main Outcome Measurements: Assessment of scores and parameters were done using Foot Health Status Questionnaire (FHSQ) and Foot Function Index (FFI) assessed at baseline before treatment and at 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after treatment.

Results: Statistically significant improvement of scores was noted in foot pain in all three groups during 1&3 month which were maintained till 6 months.  At 1 and 3 month follow up, group A had statistically significant outcome than other two. Statistically significant improvement in foot function was noted in all 3 groups at 1 month follow up which was maintained till end of 6 month, between groups there was no statistical difference. Statistically significant improvement scores at 1 and 3 month maintained till 6 month. When compared between groups during 1 and 3 month group A were statistically significant when compared between other two.

Conclusions: Treatment of plantar fasciitis with foot orthoses like UCBL, pre fabricated silicone heel cup, medial arch support with heel pad resulted in effective pain relief and improvement in foot function and general foot health condition.

Keywords: Plantar Fasciitis, Orthoses, Foot, Shoe Inserts, Pain

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Corresponding Author

Dr Chethan C

Room no 33, Dept of PM&R, Ground Floor, New OPD Building,

Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi - 110029

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., Telephone no - 9711306545