Effectiveness of Photobiomodulation Compared to Usual Care for Plantar Fasciitis
Abstract
Plantar fasciitis, a degenerative injury of the connective tissue in the foot, results in painrelated disability in Service Members and beneficiaries and contributes to decreased physical activity and excessive healthcare costs. Even if effective, current treatment protocols may require 6-12 months of therapy to return individuals to pain-free activity. Photobiomodulation (PBM), or low level laser therapy, uses non-ionizing light to elicit biological changes in tissues resulting in beneficial therapeutic outcomes. Evidence supports use of PBM for other degenerative connective tissue conditions, such as Achilles tendinopathy and epicondylitis. Unfortunately, previous studies of PBM for treatment of plantar fasciitis lack optimized treatment parameters and therefore have been inconclusive on its clinical effectiveness.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Oct 18, 2018
- Source ID
- HU0001161TS07
Entities
People
- Ann Ketz
Organizations
- Geneva Foundation
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences