Shock Wave Therapy Versus Low Level Laser Therapy in Patients With Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a result of degenerative irritation of the plantar fascia origin at the medial calcaneal tuberosity of the heel as well as the surrounding perifascial structures, it is a common problem accounting for approximately one million patient visits per year, it is often an overuse injury. As a result tight gastrocnemius, soleus, and/or other posterior leg muscles have also been commonly found in patients with this condition. Shock wave therapy is thought to provide long lasting analgesia and stimulate the healing process, Low level laser therapy has been used to relieve pain caused by plantar fasciitis, also stretching of the shortened and contracted plantar flexors may positively influence an individual's functional activities of daily living and decrease the risk of injury.