Riassunto dello studio

One hundred forty-nine patients with chronic plantar fasciitis were randomized to receive autologous whole-blood injection (AWBI) followed by three days of load restriction using crutches (n=75) or AWBI with immediate normal weight bearing (n=74). The primary outcome was pain (VAS) and pressure pain threshold (PPT). Secondary outcomes included number of paracetamol tablets used and time to return to daily activities. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and at 3, 30, and 90 days, and 1 year. Overall, the results of the study revealed better early (day-3 and day-30) pain and PPT in the load-restriction group, alongside fewer analgesics and earlier return to activity; by 90 days and 1 year, between-group differences disappeared. These findings suggest a simple, no-cost, three-day load-restriction protocol after AWBI accelerates early recovery without altering longer-term outcomes.