This case seriesevaluated the use of OrthoCor Pulsed Shortwave Therapy (PST) for treating plantar fasciitis. Patients using OrthoCor PST alongside home stretching experienced significant tissue healing and functional improvement, with no reported adverse events.
Key Findings
- Tissue healing observed on ultrasound
- 34% decrease in plantar fascia thickness (p = 0.005)
- 79% decrease in hypoechoic regions (p = 0.004)
- Functional improvement
- 46% increase in Foot and Ankle Disability Index (FADI) scores (p < 0.001)
- 166% increase in Patient Specific Functional Scale (PSFS) scores (p < 0.001)
Study Design
12 patients with plantar fasciitis received OrthoCor PST and followed a structured home stretching regimen over a 12-week period. Outcomes were assessed using ultrasound imaging and the FADI and PSFS survey scores. Patients were excluded if they had received corticosteroid injections in the past 6 months and were asked not to take NSAIDs during the study.
Results
Ultrasound imaging confirmed significant reductions in plantar fascia thickness and hypoechoic regions (both markers of tissue healing), while patients also reported significant functional improvements. Despite the small samples size, results reached statistical significance for all measures.
OrthoCor PST, paired with stretching, proved to be an effective non-pharmaceutical option to promote tissue healing and restoring function in patients with plantar fasciitis.
