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Abstract
Background Plantar heel spur syndrome or calcaneal spur is radiologically described as an exostotic plantar bone formation at the insertion of the plantar fascia and muscles. Painful plantar heel is a relatively common clinical entity and plantar fasciitis and calcaneal spurs are frequently associated with this condition. Despite the common use of low level laser to accelerate wound healing, lessen pain, decrease inflammation and speed recovery, the efficacy of its use in musculoskeletal problems such as calcaneal spur still remains contentious.
Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in the treatment of calcaneal spur.
Methods Fifteen patients with calcaneal spur were included in the study. Demographic data of patients was recorded. Infrared Gallium-Aluminum-Arsenide (Ga-Al-As) laser therapy with 850nm wavelength was applied for 9 sessions 3 times a week. For perceived quality of life assessment Maryland Foot Score and Foot Function Index (FFI) were used. 100 meter walk test was used to evaluate walking speed, and cadence was calculated.
Results Eight female and seven male subjects had a mean age of 48.66±11.15 years and a mean body index of 32.74±7.82 kg/m2.Pre-post treatment values showed a significant difference in favour of post treatment values in the pain and terrain items of Maryland Foot Score (p<0.05). There were no significant differences between the other parameters of Maryland Foot Score (distanced walked, stability, limp, shoes, stair, support) (p>0.05). After LLLT significant differences were also found for cadence and walking speed and for all the parameters of the Foot Function Index in favour of post treatment values.
Conclusions LLLT is effective in treating calcaneal spur.For more conclusive results, controlled trials with larger groups are needed.
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Disclosure of Interest None Declared