International Journal of Science and Healthcare Research Vol.4; Issue: 3; July-Sept. 2019 Website: www.ijshr.com Original Research Article ISSN: 2455-7587 International Journal of Science and Healthcare Research (www.ijshr.com) 58 Vol.4; Issue: 3; July-September 2019 Effects of Conventional Ultrasound V/S Low Level Laser Treatment in Chronic Plantar Fasciitis Dr. Shilpa Khatri 1 , Dr. Ujwal Yeole 2 , Miss Priyanka Gupta 3 1 Assistant Professor, Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth, Pune. 2 Associate Professor and Principal, Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth, Pune. 3 Intern, Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth, Pune. Corresponding Author: Dr. Shilpa Khatri ABSTRACT Background: Plantar fasciitis is one of the common soft-tissue disorders of the foot, yet little is known about its aetiology. The purpose of the present study was to see the effects of the conventional ultrasound and low level laser treatment on plantar fasciitis. Aim and objective: To study the effects of conventional ultrasound versus low level laser treatment on pain disability in chronic plantar fasciitis. Methods: 52 participants were selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria and consent was taken. Participants were divided into Group A, Group B. Group A were given therapeutic conventional ultrasound along with stretching exercises and Group B were given LLLT along with stretching exercises. Participants were assessed for plantar fasciitis using Foot Function Index and Maryland foot score. Assessment was done on pre and post intervention on Day 1, 7, 14, 21, 28 i.e. study duration was four weeks. Results: The P value of Group A is <0.0001 and Group B is <0.0001.The comparative p value of two group is <0.05. Conclusion: In this study we conclude that, LLLT is more effective on pain disability in chronic plantar fasciitis than Conventional ultrasound. Key Words: Therapeutic conventional ultrasound, LLLT, Plantar fasciitis, Foot Function Index, Maryland Foot Score, Stretching Exercises INTRODUCTION Plantar fasciitis is the most common foot condition treated by healthcare providers. Plantar Apo neurosis or fascia consists of 3 bands; lateral, medial and central. The central band is the only one attaching the calcaneus to the proximal toes with wrapping on the heads of metatarsals. This arrangement results in “windlass effect” (functional shortening) on plantar fascia when the toes are extended, during the latter part of stance phase. The most common site of heel pain diagnosed as plantar fasciitis is near the origin or enthesis of the central band at the medial plantar tubercle of the calcaneus. [1] Reduced ankle dorsiflexion, obesity (BMI≥30kg/m 2 ), and work-related weight-bearing appear to be independent risk factors for plantar fasciitis. [2] Conservative treatment based on physical therapy (stretching exercises) and analgesic agents is usually enough, although recovery is slow (up to 18 months). Hence, it is incorporated with electro-therapeutic modalities. [3] In physiotherapy, there is wide use of conventional ultrasound for the management of the plantar fasciitis. Therapeutic conventional ultrasound, described as a high-frequency mechanical wave, transmits energy through vibration. Conventional ultrasonic generators are able to deliver energy in two modalities: continuous or pulsed. [4] Another modality that is now again widely used in physiotherapy clinics is low-intensity LASER treatment. It has gained popularity over the last 30 years as a safe, conservative, and effective way to treat a variety of soft tissue injuries and painful conditions. [5] Low level LASER treatment