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

Aim of the workThis 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).Patients and methodsThe 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.ResultsRelative 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).ConclusionLocal 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.