Current Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis

Abstract

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common complaints of chronic rearfoot heel pain seen by primary care providers. The etiology and differential diagnosis are numerous, as are treatment options. This article includes a definition of plantar fasciitis, anatomy, predisposing factors, physical examination techniques, differential diagnosis, and conservative nonsurgical treatment options. Plantar fasciitis may be acute, but is more often a chronic condition that is directly related to physical activity. The most common complaint is intense heel pain with the first step from bed in the morning and initial step after resting. This pain subsides with time, but returns in the evening after prolonged standing.

Long-Term Outcome of Low-Energy Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis: Comparative Analysis According to Ultrasonographic Findings

“…The standard treatments of PF are conservative measures including insoles, shoe modification, physical therapy, stretching exercises and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Further approaches include corticosteroid injections [4,5,6,7,8]. For intractable cases, surgical release of the plantar fascia may be considered.…”

Clinical Study of a Four‐Step Program for the Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis with Bone Spurs

“…However, the pain is significantly relieved after a few steps. 15,16 Surgical Method Bone spurs in the heel bone, localized soft tissue inflammation, and high pressure within the heel bone can all cause heel pain symptoms. 6,8,12 So we developed a four-step program of surgical treatment to address these factors.…”

The Effect of Monophasic Pulsed Current with Stretching Exercise on the Heel Pain and Plantar Fascia Thickness in Plantar Fasciitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

“…Plantar fascia or plantar aponeurosis is a thick and strong fibrous connective tissue extending from the medial tuberosity of the calcaneus and into three bands to attach into the bases of proximal phalanges or at the metatarsophalangeal joints to the medial longitudinal arch of the foot [5,6].…”

“…Extrinsic potential predisposing factors that may make someone susceptible to the development of PF include high intensity sport activities or training that require repetitive plantar flexion and extension of the metatarsophalangeal, and that mechanical overload and high tensile load that develop micro-tears of the plantar fascia, leading chronic inflammatory responses followed by degeneration [ 7 ]. Other extrinsic potential risk factors include the use of poor or worn footwear, occupational and recreational activities that require prolonged standing or weight bearing, and improper posture [ 5 , 8 , 9 ].…”