The Additive Effect of Exercise in Addition to Corticosteroid Injection in Plantar Fasciitis

The Additive Effect of Exercise in Addition to Corticosteroid Injection for Pain and Functional Performance in Plantar Fasciitis: A Single-Center Randomized Clinical Study

Plantar fasciitis (PF) involves the degeneration of the medial calcaneal tuberosity and nearby perifascial tissues in the heel. It is the leading cause of heel pain, typically resulting from repetitive strain on the plantar fascia, causing structural damage. Key risk factors for PF include an increased body mass index in active individuals and a greater range of plantar flexion motion. Treatment options for PF vary, and there is no clear consensus on the most effective approach. Conservative treatments may include rest, stretching exercises for the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon, strengthening exercises for foot intrinsic muscles, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), orthotics, heel pads, dorsiflexion night splints, and corticosteroid injections. These treatments may be used individually or in combination. Corticosteroid injections are the most frequently used invasive treatment. However, there has been limited research examining the effects of corticosteroid injections combined with exercises targeting intrinsic foot muscle strength on functionality and walking distance. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of an exercise program added to corticosteroid injections on pain relief and functional performance in individuals with PF.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Those over the age of 18
• Those who have pain in the plantar region for 1 month and this pain is 5 or more according to VAS,
• Those who describe pain on the first step of the morning,
• Those with plantar fascia tenderness on palpation,
• Patients who will be in harmony with the physician and physiotherapist in exercise and follow-up throughout the entire study period.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Cases with fracture, entrapment neuropathy and rupture,
• Those with neurological and systemic diseases,
• Those with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of more than 40,
• Conditions with a local contraindication to corticosteroid,
• Participants who have situations that may prevent their safety, execution or interpretation of the results during the continuation of the training and applied of the test protocol.