MR imaging of plantar fasciitis: edema, tears, and occult marrow abnormalities correlated with outcome

Abstract

Objective: We sought to evaluate various MR imaging signs of plantar fasciitis and to determine if a difference in these findings exists between clinically typical and atypical patients with chronic symptoms resistant to conservative treatment.

Conclusion: We found signs on MR imaging that, to our knowledge, have not been described in the scientific literature for patients with plantar fasciitis. These signs included occult marrow edema and fascial tears. Patients with these manifestations seemed to respond to treatment in a manner similar to that of patients in whom MR imaging revealed more benign findings.