NCT07043699

Effect of Phonophoresis Versus Iontophoresis in the Treatment of Perimenopausal Plantar Fasciitis

• Status: Completed
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 42 (actual)
• Sponsor: Cairo University · Academic / Other
• Sex: Female
• Age: 50 Years – 51 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Not accepted

Summary

The purpose of the study was to investigate the effect of phonophoresis versus iontophoresis on plantar fasciitis in perimenopausal women.

Detailed description

Collagen plays a critical role in determining the tensile strength of connective tissue. During the perimenopausal transition, the overall quantity of collagen decreases; however, there is a relative increase in type I collagen compared to type III collagen. This shift contributes to increased tissue stiffness. Research indicates that estrogen has a protective effect on muscles and fascia, preventing fibrogenesis. Consequently, as estrogen levels decline during perimenopause, fibrogenic activity may increase. In addition, reduced estrogen levels are associated with enhanced elastin degradation, leading to diminished tissue elasticity and reduced recoil capacity. This degradation of connective tissue is considered a primary cause of plantar fasciitis, which results from collagen breakdown in the plantar fascia at its origin-the calcaneal tuberosity of the heel-and surrounding fascial structures. When plantar fasciitis develops in perimenopausal women, it can significantly disrupt daily activities. Many women experience fallen arches and severe irritation, with pain affecting functions such as standing, walking, climbing stairs, and working. This functional impairment can lead to emotional consequences, including depression. Given these challenges, there is a pressing need to identify new, alternative, and cost-effective methods for managing and treating this condition. This study examined the effectiveness of phonophoresis and iontophoresis in treating plantar fasciitis in perimenopausal women. The findings aimed to contribute valuable knowledge to the field of physical therapy and offer practical solutions for women suffering from this condition.

Conditions

• Plantar Fasciitis

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
OTHER	Phonophoresis	Each woman in the first group received phonophoresis treatment. The procedure was performed using diclofenac sodium gel. Treatment was administered three times per week over a period of eight weeks. Ultrasound was applied at an intensity of 1 W/cm² for 8 minutes using a pulsed mode at a frequency of 1 MHz.
OTHER	Iontophoresis	Each woman in the second group received iontophoresis treatment using a diclofenac sodium solution (Voltaren ampoules). The solution was applied under the cathode (drug delivery electrode). The iontophoresis leads were connected, and the current intensity was adjusted based on individual tolerance, ranging between 1 and 4 mA, for a duration of 20 minutes. The negative electrode was placed on the medial side of the calcaneal tubercle (origin), while the positive electrode was positioned on the forefoot. Treatment was administered three times per week over a period of eight weeks.

Timeline

• Start date: 2024-12-01
• Primary completion: 2025-06-01
• Completion: 2025-06-16
• First posted: 2025-06-29
• Last updated: 2025-06-29

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Egypt