Local injection of autologous platelet rich plasma and corticosteroid in treatment of lateral epicondylitis and plantar fasciitis: randomized clinical trial

ABSTRACT

This randomized controlled study was designed to compare the effectiveness of local injection of autologous platelet rich plasma [PRP] and local steroid in reducing pain and improving function in a cohort of patients with tennis elbow [TE] and plantar fasciitis [PF]. The study population comprised two groups; Group 1 patients with TE [n = 30] and Group 2 patients with PF [n = 30]. In each group patients were allocated randomly to receive either a steroid or PRP injections. All patients filled in visual analog scale [VAS], disability of arm, shoulder and hand [DASH] score for TE and foot health status questionnaire [FHSQ] for PF at base line and after 6 weeks. Relative to TE group of patients significant differences were observed between VAS and DASH scores at base line and 6 weeks after treatment in both groups [p < 0.001]. While no significant differences were observed relative to VAS and DASH score changes between both groups [p > 0.05]. In PF patients comparison of VAS and FHSQ at base line and 6 weeks after treatment between control group and PRP group showed significant differences for VAS [p = 0.005 and p < 0.001, respectively], and for FHSQ [p = 0.03 and p < 0.001, respectively]. While highly significant difference were observed between both groups regarding VAS and FHSQ changes [p = 0.001]. Local injection of autologous PRP proved to be a promising form of therapy for TE and PF. It is both safe and effective in relieving pain and improving function and superior to local steroids in PF