Comparing surgical and non-surgical treatments for chronic plantar fasciitis

Surgical or Non-surgical Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis - A Randomized Clinical Trial

Not applicable Interventional University of Southern Denmark · NCT03854682

This study tests whether a new surgery or strength training works better to relieve pain and improve function for people with chronic plantar fasciitis.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment70 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Southern Denmark Academic / other
Locations1 site (Kolding)
Trial IDNCT03854682 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of two treatment approaches for chronic plantar fasciitis: radiofrequency microtenotomy and strength training. Participants will be assessed based on their pain levels and specific symptoms related to plantar heel pain. The study aims to determine which intervention provides better relief and functional improvement for patients suffering from this common condition. Diagnosis will be confirmed through ultrasound imaging to measure the thickness of the fascia plantaris.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 40-60 with chronic plantar heel pain lasting over 7 months and a specific pain score.

Not a fit: Patients with systemic diseases, diabetes, or recent treatments for plantar pain may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide patients with more effective treatment options for chronic plantar fasciitis, potentially improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown varying success with both surgical and non-surgical treatments for plantar fasciitis, making this approach relevant yet still exploratory.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* VAS pain score \> 30 within last 7 days
* Plantar heel pain\> 7 months
* Palpation soreness fascia plantaris at heel
* Plantar heel pain during first steps (First-step sign)
* Read and understand Danish

Exclusion Criteria:

* Systemic diseases or neuropathy
* Diabetes
* Pregnant
* Previous heel surgery on same foot
* Cortisone injections within past 3 months
* Bilateral symptom onset within past 7 days
* Signs of tarsal tunnel
* Facia plantaris thickness of less than 4 mm
* Performed message / head recovery / stretching within the past month
* Any treatment for plantar pain within the past 3 months
* Other reasons

Where this trial is running

Kolding

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Fasciitis, Plantar, Chronic
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.