Comparative Efficacy Of Intralesional Triamcinolone Versus Autologous Platelet-Rich Plasma In Chronic Plantar Fasciitis: A Prospective Study

Abstract

Chronic plantar fasciitis is a frequently encountered and often debilitating musculoskeletal condition characterized by heel pain due to degenerative changes in the plantar fascia. Despite various conservative management strategies, a significant subset of patients experience persistent symptoms, necessitating the use of injectable interventions. This study presents a prospective comparative evaluation of the functional effectiveness of two such interventions: intralesional triamcinolone and autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP).

Conducted at the Adichunchanagiri Institute of Medical Sciences between March 2023 and August 2024, this study involved 40 patients diagnosed with chronic plantar fasciitis. The participants were divided into two equal groups, receiving either triamcinolone or PRP injections. Pain and functional outcomes were assessed at 1, 3, and 6 weeks using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the Foot and Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS).

The results demonstrated that while both treatments yielded improvement, the steroid group exhibited significantly greater reductions in VAS scores and more rapid functional gains in the short term. PRP, although slightly slower to take effect, presented a promising alternative, especially considering its regenerative potential.

In conclusion, intralesional triamcinolone remains a highly effective short-term treatment for chronic plantar fasciitis, but PRP may offer advantages in long-term recovery and safety. This comparative insight provides clinicians with valuable guidance in tailoring treatment to individual patient profiles.