Iontophoresis versus ultrasound in patients with plantar fasciitis

Introduction: Plantar Fasciitis occurs because of micro trauma to the plantar fascia due to abnormal loading. Plantar fasciitis is considered as a self limiting condition. However the typical resolution time is anywhere from 6-18 months or sometimes longer. Conservative management is reportedly very successful. Therapeutic ultrasound with or without phonophoresis, electrical stimulation and administration of NSAIDS through iontophoresis are said to be effective. Methods: 30 patients were taken from OPD of Department of Orthopaedics, Guru Gobind Singh Medical College and Hospital; Faridkot based upon inclusion and exclusion criteria. The subjects were divided into two groups of 15 in each by simple random sampling. Group A was treated with Ultrasound for 3weeks, Group B was treated with Iontophoresis for 3 weeks. Total treatment duration was 3 weeks. Both groups were assessed for Pain (visual analogue scale) and disability (Foot Function Index). Results: There was no significant difference between the two groups in VAS and FFI before the treatment had started at 0th week as p value was (0.851), (0.522). While there was a significant difference between the two groups after 3rd week of treatment as p value was (0.115), (0.000). The score of visual analogue scale (VAS) and foot functioning index (FFI) improved in both groups, though the decrease of intensity of pain and functional disability was more in Group B (p<0.01). Conclusion: This study concluded that both Ultrasound and Iontophoresis are effective in decreasing pain and functional disability. However, it is concluded that Iontophoresis is more effective than Ultrasound in Plantar Fasciitis.