The Science Is In! An exciting new study provides compelling evidence for incorporating photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) in the treatment of plantar fasciitis. A 2024 randomized controlled trial has demonstrated the significant benefits of PBMT in plantar fasciitis treatment. In fact- laser therapy combined with usual care appears to be more effective than usual care alone for treating plantar fasciitis.

Key findings of this study:

• Pain reduction: PBMT groups experienced a significant decrease in pain over the first three weeks of treatment, with average pain scores dropping from 4.5 to 2.8 on the Defense and Veterans Pain Rating Scale. In contrast, the usual care group only saw a minor reduction from 4.0 to 3.8.
• Improved function: PBMT groups showed greater functional improvement on the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure.
• Rapid onset of benefits: The majority of improvements occurred within the first three weeks of treatment for the PBMT groups.
• Sustained benefits: The improvements in pain and function for the PBMT groups were maintained for up to 6 months after treatment.

OrthoLazer Centers across the country are seeing patient outcomes consistent with the results of this study. In addition, many patients benefit from OrthoLazer Maintenance Care to help keep symptoms controlled long term.

Remember! Your endorsement helps your patients access the clinical benefits of laser therapy. Please share this news with your patients as we work together to provide the most advanced plantar fasciitis care available. Patient education materials can be helpful in your practice’s workflow.

All previous Clinical News editions are archived in the OrthoLazer Knowledge Center!

Lisa Moore, MSPT

Director, Provider Engagement

OrthoLazer Orthopedic Laser