Reliability in ultrasound measurements of plantar aponeurosis thickness

Ultrasound Strain Elastography Reliability in the Assessment of the Plantar Fascia and Its Relationship with the Plantar Thickness in Healthy Adults: An Intra and Interobserver Reliability Study in Novice Evaluators

“…In addition to the use of US in the evaluation of patients, SEL appears to be a noteworthy tool in this regard. Additionally, the efficacy of rehabilitation and treatment protocols can be usefully monitored by ultrasound strain elastography, which yields quantitative data and, as regards functional and pain scores, demonstrates a reliable correlation [18]. In order to raise ultrasound measurement reliability and diminish mistakes, it is essential to observe the evidence that sonogram acquisition parameters, such as the positioning of the probe and its orientation, are crucial [18].…”

“…All the plantar fascia thickness and SEL measurements were taken in millimeters. Participants were positioned in ventral decubitus on a flat table, with their feet hanging beyond the table edge [18]. Each subject was examined while lying prone with 90 degrees of knee flexion in the neutral ankle position and the central band of the plantar fascia of the foot was traced by hand from the arch to the heel in order to discern the borders.…”

“…Key aspects that highlight the usefulness of elastography in musculoskeletal disorders are tissue characterization, differentiating between normal and abnormal tissues by quantifying their mechanical properties; injury assessment and monitoring; treatment guidance; and surgical planning, research, and rehabilitation [16,17]. However, its level of reliability is still too low due to the fact that measurements of PF stiffness are not standardized, resulting in reliability studies being difficult to generalize [18]. Furthermore, the examiners' dependency on ultrasound means that their level of experience should also be considered.…”