Does Targeting the Sural Nerve Along with the Posterior Tibial Nerve Increase Effectiveness of Pulsed Radiofrequency Treatment in Chronic Plantar Heel Pain?

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the outcomes of pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) treatment for patients with chronic plantar heel pain, a common condition often treated with interventional pain procedures. This observational study compares PRF applied only to the posterior tibial nerve versus PRF applied to both the posterior tibial and sural nerves. The study aims to understand whether targeting the sural nerve in addition to the posterior tibial nerve affects pain and function in these patients. The study includes patients who have already received ultrasound-guided PRF treatment as part of their routine clinical care. Two groups are compared: one received PRF only to the posterior tibial nerve, and the other received PRF to both the posterior tibial and sural nerves. No changes are made to treatment plans for study purposes, and patients are not randomized. Participants’ pain levels and foot function are assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) hindfoot score. These assessments occur at baseline, 1 month, and 3 months after treatment. The study monitors these outcomes retrospectively to compare effectiveness between the two groups and includes patients aged 18 to 65 years with chronic heel pain and significant baseline pain.

Effect of Additional Sural Nerve PRF in Chronic Heel Pain