Assessing the effectiveness of Valeriana officinalis and Individualised Homoeopathic Medicine in the treatment of Plantar Fasciitis with Calcaneal Spur-A Comparative study

NEED FOR THE STUDY

Plantar fasciitis is a prevalent and one of the most common musculoskeletal conditions affecting the lower limb, which arises from the degenerative irritation of the plantar fascia that originates at the medial calcaneal tuberosity of the heel and involves the adjacent fascial tissues

Plantar calcaneal spur is described as bony outgrowths that develops just anterior to the medial process of the calcaneal tuberosity

The two conditions often share risk factors like aging and obesity, suggesting a possible association. High rates of calcaneal spurs have been reported among those suffering from plantar fasciitis

An estimated 10 percentage of the general population is affected, with around 83 percentage of these individuals being physically active adults between the ages of 25 and 65. Plantar fasciitis typically occurs between the ages of 40 and 60 and is responsible for around 15 percentage of all foot related injuries in the general population, with no significant difference between genders. While it can affect both athletic and non athletic individuals, the condition is more frequently observed in runners. Epidemiological data suggest a higher prevalence among women and those with a body mass index exceeding 25 kg per m².

Plantar fasciitis results from repetitive strain leading to micro-tears in the plantar fascia. While it can arise from direct trauma, it is often associated with multiple contributing factors. Common predisposing conditions include flat feet, high arches, limited ankle dorsiflexion, and abnormal foot mechanics such as excessive pronation or supination. Additional risk factors include obesity, aging, prolonged weight bearing activities, occupations that involve long periods of standing, and thinning of the heel pad.

Valeriana officinalis is a homoeopathic remedy used for nerve sensitivity, muscle tension, and musculoskeletal disorders; however, a significant research gap exists regarding its clinical effectiveness in the treatment of plantar fasciitis with calcaneal spur.

Hence, this study is intended to assess the effectiveness of Valeriana officinalis in comparison to Individualized Homoeopathic Medicine in the treatment of plantar fasciitis with calcaneal spur.

RESEARCH QUESTION

Is there any difference in the effectiveness of Valeriana officinalis and Individualised Homoeopathic Medicine in the treatment of plantar fasciitis with calcaneal spur?

NULL HYPOTHESIS

There may not be significant difference in the effectiveness between Valeriana officinalis and Individualized Homoeopathic Medicine in the treatment of plantar fasciitis with calcaneal spur

ALTERNATIVE HYPOTHESIS

There may be significant difference in the effectiveness between Valeriana officinalis and Individualized Homoeopathic Medicine in the treatment of Plantar fasciitis with calcaneal spur