Iontophoresis and low-dye taping are effective conservative interventions for plantar fasciitis: study

Key findings of the study were:

• Eight studies published between 1997 and 2018 were included, providing a moderate level of evidence.

• Both iontophoresis (with the specified agents) and low-dye taping, alone or combined, were associated with statistically significant reductions in pain scores compared to baseline.

The authors concluded – “Iontophoresis and low-dye taping are effective conservative treatments for reducing foot pain in adults with plantar fasciitis. However, evidence from this review suggests that the combined use of iontophoresis and LDT provides superior pain relief compared to either treatment alone. Among the substances used, 5% acetic acid appears to be the most effective when applied via iontophoresis.

Nevertheless, the current body of research is limited by heterogeneity in methodologies, small sample sizes, and short-term follow-up. Future studies should aim to standardize treatment protocols, use consistent outcome measures, and include larger populations with long-term follow-up to better assess the durability of therapeutic effects.”

Further reading:

Comparative Effectiveness of Iontophoresis vs. Low Dye Taping in Plantar Fasciitis: A Systematic Review

Aurora Castro‑Mendez et al

Indian Journal of Orthopaedics

https://doi.org/10.1007/s43465-025-01477-4