Plantar Fasciitis

Excerpt

Plantar fasciitis occurs due to degenerative irritation at the origin of the plantar fascia, located at the medial calcaneal tuberosity of the heel and the surrounding perifascial structures. The plantar fascia plays an essential role in the normal biomechanics of the foot and comprises three segments arising from the calcaneus. The fascia is essential in supporting the arch and providing shock absorption. Despite featuring the -itis suffix in the diagnosis, this condition stands out for its absence of inflammatory cells.

Plantar fasciitis is prevalent in the United States, with millions experiencing heel pain annually. The cause of plantar fasciitis is multifactorial, but most cases result from overuse stress. The classic presentation is of sharp localized pain at the heel. Occasionally, a heel spur may be found (see Images. Lateral Radiograph, Heel Spur and Large Heel Spur and Plantar Calcaneal Spur). Plantar fasciitis is not easy to treat, and patient dissatisfaction is common with most treatments. Nonsurgical management handles most cases, but the recurrence of pain proves frustrating.