Summary

Retrocalcaneal bursitis treatment by PRP and steroid injection

Abstract

Background

Autologous injection of platelet rich plasma (PRP) stimulates healing process in degenerated tendons. In recent times Steroid injection and PRP are used extensively for treatment of retrocalcaneal bursitis. The purpose of this study is to compare the longterm functional outcome of retrocalcaneal bursitis treated with PRP and steroid injection.

Methodology

Clinically diagnosed retrocalcaneal bursitis patients who failed conservative medical therapy and symptoms more than six weeks were included in the study. Patients with previous surgery, vascular disease, neuropathy related to elbow pain were excluded from study. In this prospective double-blind study 120 patients included were divided randomly into two groups , PRP group (n=58) and Steroid group (n=60). Data were collected before procedure, at 4, 8, 12 weeks, 1 year after procedure. The main outcome measures were visual analogue score, AOFAS score. Among 60 patients in PRP, 2 patients were missed for followup, hence not included in final outcome.

Results

at the end of follow up patients in group A(PRP) had better pain relief and functional outcome than group B (steroid).

Conclusion

PRP injection for retrocalcaneal bursitis reduces pain, improve functionality compared to steroid injection and beneficial effects last long.