Lyftogt perineural injection therapy® as a primary treatment for plantar fasciitis: a randomized, controlled pilot with crossover

Abstract

Background: Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that interferes with patient function and activity level. This study compared usual care to Lyftogt perineural injection therapy® as a primary treatment for plantar fasciitis. Methods: Subjects with foot pain associated with plantar fasciitis were recruited in to the study. They were randomized into the usual care protocol or treatment with Lyftogt perineural injection therapy®. Subjects in the injection group were injected weekly for 8 weeks. Five milliliters of 5% dextrose in water were injected perineural to the saphenous nerve at the adductor canal and the deep tibial nerve at the bifurcation of the gastrocnemius muscles of the affected side. Subjects who completed the 8 week usual care protocol, crossed over into the injection therapy arm. Subject assessed Roles and Maudsley Scores on a 1–4 scale, physician assessed pain with palpation on a 1–4 scale, and MSKUS measured plantar fasciitis thickness were tracked. Results: Complete information for 9 control and 9 intervention subjects was compiled. MSKUS measured plantar fasciitis thickness was significantly reduced in the intervention group (p = 0.019). Physician assessed pain with palpation was also significantly reduced for the compiled intervention group (p = 0.006). Conclusion: Lyftogt perineural injection therapy® may be a viable treatment option for plantar fasciitis.