AIM: Efficacy of low-energy shock wave therapy for recalcitrant plantar fasciitis. METHOD: 32 patients were randomly assigned into real and placebo ESWT groups, treatment comprised 1000 impulses of 0,08 mJ/mm 2 at 14 kV (OssaTron OSA 120, HMT AG, Switzerland) in 12 cases repeated after six weeks or placebo (energy-absorbing foil). Follow-up evaluation (19, 32 and 48 wks.) included specific questionnaire, clinical-functional examination and measurement of plantar pressure while walking (Emed AT-4. pedograph, Novel GmbH, Munich). Examiner and patients were blinded. RESULTS: 88 % of the treatment group were pain free or had good results. None of the placebo group were pain free, 33.3 % had good results (Roles and Maudsley Score). The treatment group showed significantly better outcome for morning and resting pain, pressure stamp-tolerance and walking ability. Pedography did not show a clear correlation between pain relief and load pattern. CONCLUSION: The results of this study corroborate the value of ESWT for recalcitrant plantar fascitis. As a non invasive technique with low side effects, it can complement the row of conservative treatments.

Double-Blind Method↗

PubMedDate not supplied

[Possibilities and limitations of knee joint sonography].

In case of arthrosonography the sonography of knee-joint has got more importance because of the prompt and reproduceable possibility of soft tissue imaging without incidental consequences. There is a limitation of conclusiveness because of overshadow of bone structures and the narrow joint space. The cruciate ligaments and the imaging of the menisci, whose evaluation is still in discussion, are especially concerned. The method is excellent useful for clarification of traumatic or other soft tissue alterations in popliteal as well as in medial and lateral but also in supra--and infrapatellar region. With improvement of the equipment, e.g. the transmissionsonography, this diagnostic method for knee-joint could get greater importance.

Cartilage, Articular↗