Efficacy of TECAR Therapy in Plantar Fasciitis

This randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled clinical trial aims to evaluate the efficacy of Capacitive and Resistive Energy Transfer (TECAR) therapy combined with an exercise program in patients with plantar fasciitis. The effects of active TECAR therapy will be compared with sham TECAR therapy, both combined with the same exercise program, in terms of pain intensity, functional status, and ultrasonographic plantar fascia thickness. TECAR therapy is a non-invasive physical therapy modality used in musculoskeletal rehabilitation. Although it is increasingly used in clinical practice, evidence from sham-controlled randomized trials in patients with plantar fasciitis remains limited. This study aims to determine whether active TECAR therapy provides additional benefits over sham treatment when combined with exercise. The findings are expected to contribute to the evidence regarding the clinical efficacy of TECAR therapy in the management of plantar fasciitis.

Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged 18-65 years * Clinical diagnosis of plantar fasciitis * Presence of tenderness over the medial calcaneal tubercle and/or morning first-step pain * Symptom duration of at least 3 months * Pain intensity ≥4 on the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) * Plantar fascia thickness ≥4.0 mm at the medial calcaneal insertion, measured by ultrasonography * Willingness to participate in the study and provision of written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * History of injection therapy, extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), or surgery for plantar fasciitis within the previous 3 months * Presence of systemic inflammatory rheumatic diseases * Diabetic neuropathy or peripheral neuropathy * Other conditions that may cause heel pain (e.g., stress fracture, infection, or tumor) * Pregnancy * Presence of a cardiac pacemaker or other implanted electronic device * Active infection or open wound at the treatment site