Plantar Fasciitis: Etiology and Treatment

Plantar fasciitis is a repetitive injury which causes microtrauma to the attachment of the plantar aponeurosis at the medial calcaneous of the foot. This condition is most prevalent among athletes involved in running sports, but can also occur in a sedentary individual who is overweight. Traditional treatments for plantar fasciitis, including rest, ice, anti-inflammatory drugs, and passive modalities, are helpful in temporarily reducing inferior heel pain. However, recurrence of this condition is common because the potential biomechanical causes of plantar fasciitis are often left unidentified. The purpose of this study is to review the anatomical structures and the biomechanical functions of the plantar fascia, to describe mechanical and non-mechanical etiologic factors involved in plantar fasciitis, and to analyze the inflammatory tissue response of this fibrous connective tissue. Furthermore, the literature review outlines a comprehensive rehabilitation treatment plan, including a conservative course of treatment using therapeutic exercises, taping techniques, and orthotic devices as well as possible surgical procedures in the most severe cases