Abstract

This study aimed to determine the effect of calcaneal spur (CS) presence on the response to extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) in patients with plantar fasciitis (PF). Eighty patients clinically diagnosed with PF were initially assessed, and 64 were included after exclusions. Patients were categorized into two groups according to the presence or absence of CS, identified through weight-bearing lateral radiographs. Both groups received ESWT once a week for three weeks at a frequency of 12 Hz, energy intensity of 3.0 Bar, and 2000 shocks per session. Pain severity and functionality were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Foot Function Index (FFI), while the Roles and Maudsley Score (RMS) evaluated the relationship between pain and daily activities. The results showed notable enhancements in pain and functional outcomes in both groups following ESWT, demonstrating its effectiveness in treating PF regardless of CS presence. No statistically significant variation in treatment effectiveness was detected between the groups, suggesting that CS presence is not a determining factor in the effectiveness of ESWT. The findings highlight the need for further large-scale, controlled studies to explore the impact of CS size, type, and geometric characteristics on treatment outcomes. This study emphasizes ESWT as an effective treatment option for PF patients, irrespective of CS presence.

Key words: Calcaneal spur, plantar fasciitis, extracorporeal shockwave therapy, pain, activities of daily living.