Extracorporeal shock wave therapy in the treatment of midsubstance plantar fasciitis: the ASSERT database

Introduction: This study aimed to determinate the effectiveness of ESWT in the treatment of mid-substance plantar fasciitis (MPF) in both the short and long term. Methods: The participants of this study were recruited by different clinicians of the National Health Service (NHS) and private sector centres in the United Kingdom. Data were collected in a web-based database (Assessment of the Effectiveness of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) for Soft Tissue Injuries (ASSERT)). The 52 participants (mean age 53.89 +/- 12.11 y) were treated using a standardized ESWT protocol. At baseline and again at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months following ESWT treatment, the participants were evaluated with the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain perception, the Foot Function Index (FFI) for limitations in everyday life activities, and the 6 scores of EuroQol-5D questionnaire (EQ-5D) for quality of life). Results: There was a significant improvement over time in 6 of the 8 analysed scores (all with at least p=0.003), and in particular the scores that significantly improved were VAS, FFI, and 4 scores of EQ-5D (Mobility, Pain/Discomfort, Usual Activities, and Self-care scores). Conclusion: ESWT showed beneficial effects on MPF over a 24-month follow-up period.