The Additive Effect of Exercise in Addition to Corticosteroid Injection in Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis (PF) involves the degeneration of the medial calcaneal tuberosity and nearby perifascial tissues in the heel. It is the leading cause of heel pain, typically resulting from repetitive strain on the plantar fascia, causing structural damage. Key risk factors for PF include an increased body mass index in active individuals and a greater range of plantar flexion motion. Treatment options for PF vary, and there is no clear consensus on the most effective approach. Conservative treatments may include rest, stretching exercises for the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon, strengthening exercises for foot intrinsic muscles, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), orthotics, heel pads, dorsiflexion night splints, and corticosteroid injections. These treatments may be used individually or in combination. Corticosteroid injections are the most frequently used invasive treatment. However, there has been limited research examining the effects of corticosteroid injections combined with exercises targeting intrinsic foot muscle strength on functionality and walking distance. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of an exercise program added to corticosteroid injections on pain relief and functional performance in individuals with PF.

NCT Number	NCT06917937
Lead Sponsor	Kutahya Health Sciences University
Conditions	Plantar Fascitis
Enrollment	40 participants
Start Date	2018-09-16
Primary Completion	2019-03-03 (estimated)
Study Completion	2019-05-05 (estimated)
Updated on ClinicalTrials.gov	2026-03-10