Dr. Ross Hanson
Oct 16, 20193 min
Updated: Sep 19, 2022
Although numerous studies reported that corticosteroid injection, as one of the most popular treatment for PF, may be effective to relieve pain in a short period of time,[14,15] it may lead to serious adverse events such as PF rupture.[16]
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is based on the principles of photochemistry that militates via photochemical or nonthermal effects on cells.[17] Considerable studies have reported that LLLT could cure a variety of diseases, including subacromial impingement syndrome,[18] acute and chronic pain,[19] stroke,[20] temporomandibular disorder,[21] oral mucositis,[22] lymphedema,[23] and carpal tunnel syndrome.[24] In recent years, LLLT has been used to relieve pain caused by PF.[25] Cinar et al reported that LLLT could significantly increase function subscale of American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society Score total score at 3 weeks and effectively improve walking distance and walking surface.[26] Additionally, ultrasound imaging results suggested that after LLLT intervention, plantar fascia thickness was significantly decreased when compared with that in the placebo group.[27]
Clinical efficacy of low-level laser therapy in plantar fasciitis
A systematic review and meta-analysis
Wei Wang, MSc,a Weifeng Jiang, MSc,b Chuanxi Tang, MD,c Xiao Zhang, MSc,a and Jie Xiang, MDa,∗
In conclusion, this meta-analysis demonstrated that LLLT may effectively relieve the heel pain of patients with PF, at least in the short term (i.e. 3 months).
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