BACKGROUND: Plantar fasciitis (PF) is a leading cause of heel pain. Treatment options range from conservative to invasive. Insoles offer a low-cost option that barely has side effects, however the therapeutic efficacy of insole therapy remains unclear. This study compares outcomes in patients using functional versus soft cushioning insoles.
METHODS: In this randomized, multicenter study, 131 participants with PF were assigned to soft cushioning (group A) or functional insoles (group B). Questionnaires were completed at 0, 6, 12, and 24 weeks using the Foot and Ankle Disability Index, the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society score, and a Visual Analogue Scale for pain. Statistical analysis used a 5% significance level.
RESULTS: Sex, obesity, and time spent standing/walking did not correlate with symptom severity. 84.5% showed significant improvement in pain and mobility with either insole type.
CONCLUSION: No superiority of functional over soft cushioning insoles was demonstrated; both effectively treat PF.
LEVELS OF EVIDENCE: Ib.
Read the article: PubMed · Publisher (DOI)