Riassunto dello studio

Twelve randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 781 patients with plantar fasciitis were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis comparing dry needling (DN) versus other treatments or routine treatment alone. Pooled outcomes of interest included pain reduction measured by the Visual Analog Scale/Numerical Pain Rating Scale (VAS/NPRS) and functional improvement assessed through the Foot Function Index (FFI). DN combined with routine treatments significantly reduced pain scores compared to routine treatment alone, and DN alone was superior in functional improvement over other treatments. However, pain reduction did not significantly differ between DN and other treatments. Time-based meta-analysis suggested that DN's effects on pain and function become significant after one month. These findings support DN as an effective intervention for plantar fasciitis, though further high-quality, large-sample RCTs are needed to confirm these results.