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Khammas ASA, Mahmud R, Hassan HA, Ibrahim I, Mohammed SS. An assessment of plantar fascia with ultrasound findings in patients with plantar fasciitis: a systematic review. J Ultrasound 2023; 26:13-38. [PMID: 36040577 PMCID: PMC10063743 DOI: 10.1007/s40477-022-00712-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Plantar fasciitis (PFS) is described by an intense pain over medial tubercle of calcaneus, increased with the first step after waking up, after rest and during weightbearing activity. It is the most common cause of plantar heel pain in adults with the prevalence estimated 10% of the general population. Ultrasound imaging is commonly being used to measure the PF thickness, evaluate the efficacy of different treatments and a guide therapeutic technique in patients with PFS. The objective of this study was to systematically review the studies that were previously published to evaluate the role of ultrasound in the assessment of PF in patients with PFS. METHODS A systematic search was carried out over the last 5 years from 2017 to 2022 on basis the following electronic databases: Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, Springer and PubMed. The keywords that used in the searching were: ultrasound, sonography, ultrasonography, plantar fasciitis, imaging of plantar fascia, physiotherapy of plantar fasciitis, interventional treatment of plantar fasciitis, randomized controlled trial of plantar fasciitis and interventional ultrasound. The review focused on the assessment of PF in patients with PFS underwent different interventions using B-mode, shear wave elastography (SWE) and color Doppler ultrasound. RESULTS During the search process, 1661 were recorded using the proper keywords from 2017 to 2022 in which 666 original articles were found after removing the review and duplicated articles. Of these, thirty articles met the inclusion criteria and included in this review. The articles have assessed the PF in patients with PFS under different conditions using different ultrasound modes. Twenty-six articles evaluated the effectiveness of different treatment on PF in patients with PFS using different ultrasound modes. In 8 of 26 articles, the ultrasound was used as both an assessment tool of PF and guide therapeutic technique in patients with PFS. In 18 articles, the ultrasound was used as only assessment tool to identify the PF thickness and its observation changes in patients with PFS. Four articles compared the PF thickness and its intrafascial changes between patients with PFS and healthy subjects. CONCLUSION The ultrasound can be a reliable tool in assessment the effect of different interventions on PF by evaluating its thickness, echogenicity and stiffness changes in patients with PFS. There were different methods and treatments were used among the studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Sattar Arif Khammas
- Department of Radiological Techniques, College of Health and Medical Techniques/Baghdad, Middle Technical University, 10047, Bab Al Muadham, Baghdad, Iraq.
- Department of Radiology and Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Rozi Mahmud
- Department of Radiology and Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Hasyma Abu Hassan
- Department of Radiology and Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Idris Ibrahim
- Department of Radiology and Imaging, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, 43400, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Safwan Saeed Mohammed
- Department of Radiological Techniques, College of Health and Medical Techniques/Baghdad, Middle Technical University, 10047, Bab Al Muadham, Baghdad, Iraq
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Kim Y, Bhatia D, Lee Y, Ryu Y, Park HS. Development and Clinical Evaluation of a Novel Foot Stretching Robot that Simultaneously Stretches Plantar Fascia and Achilles Tendon for Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis. IEEE Trans Biomed Eng 2022; 69:2628-2637. [PMID: 35171762 DOI: 10.1109/tbme.2022.3151871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This paper presents the development and clinical evaluation of a foot stretching robot that simultaneously stretches the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon for the treatment of plantar fasciitis. The therapeutic effectiveness of the robot and feasibility of using metatarsophalangeal joint stiffness as an indicator of recovery were identified through the clinical evaluations. METHODS The robot implements an effective foot stretching protocol through a novel mechanism design that simultaneously stretches the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon using a single motor. Thirty patients with plantar fasciitis and fifteen healthy participants volunteered in the cross-sectional clinical evaluation, and nine patients from the patients group participated in the one-month clinical trial. Four main outcomes (Foot Function Index, Visual Analogue Scale-Foot and Ankle, plantar fascia thickness, and metatarsophalangeal joint stiffness) were used for the clinical evaluations. RESULTS In the cross-sectional clinical evaluation, the symptomatic feet of patients showed moderate negative correlation between normalized metatarsophalangeal joint stiffness and plantar fascia thickness with statistical significance. In the one-month clinical trial, all the main outcomes showed significant improvement after using the developed robot. Comparing our results with previous studies also indicated a therapeutic superiority of our robot for treating plantar fasciitis. CONCLUSION Our foot stretching robot had significant therapeutic effect on plantar fasciitis, and normalized metatarsophalangeal joint stiffness measured by our robot could be used as a monitoring indicator for recovery from plantar fasciitis. SIGNIFICANCE This study contributed to practical issues related to treatment of plantar fasciitis, and our results could be applied to effective treatment of plantar fasciitis and progressive monitoring of recovery.
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Drake C, Whittaker GA, Kaminski MR, Chen J, Keenan AM, Rathleff MS, Robinson P, Landorf KB. Medical imaging for plantar heel pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Foot Ankle Res 2022; 15:4. [PMID: 35065676 PMCID: PMC8783477 DOI: 10.1186/s13047-021-00507-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Medical imaging can be used to assist with the diagnosis of plantar heel pain. The aim of this study was to synthesise medical imaging features associated with plantar heel pain. Methods This systematic review and meta-analysis conducted searches in MEDLINE, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, Embase and the Cochrane Library from inception to 12th February 2021. Peer-reviewed articles of cross-sectional observational studies written in English that compared medical imaging findings in adult participants with plantar heel pain to control participants without plantar heel pain were included. Study quality and risk of bias was assessed using the National Institutes of Health quality assessment tool for observational cohort and cross-sectional studies. Sensitivity analyses were conducted where appropriate to account for studies that used unblinded assessors. Results Forty-two studies (2928 participants) were identified and included in analyses. Only 21% of studies were rated ‘good’ on quality assessment. Imaging features associated with plantar heel pain included a thickened plantar fascia (on ultrasound and MRI), abnormalities of the plantar fascia (on ultrasound and MRI), abnormalities of adjacent tissue such as a thickened loaded plantar heel fat pad (on ultrasound), and a plantar calcaneal spur (on x-ray). In addition, there is some evidence from more than one study that there is increased hyperaemia within the fascia (on power Doppler ultrasound) and abnormalities of bone in the calcaneus (increased uptake on technetium-99 m bone scan and bone marrow oedema on MRI). Conclusions People with plantar heel pain are more likely to have a thickened plantar fascia, abnormal plantar fascia tissue, a thicker loaded plantar heel fat pad, and a plantar calcaneal spur. In addition, there is some evidence of hyperaemia within the plantar fascia and abnormalities of the calcaneus. Whilst these medical imaging features may aid with diagnosis, additional high-quality studies investigating medical imaging findings for some of these imaging features would be worthwhile to improve the precision of these findings and determine their clinical relevance. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13047-021-00507-2.
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Kim YH, Chai JW, Kim DH, Kim HJ, Seo J. A problem-based approach in musculoskeletal ultrasonography: heel pain in adults. Ultrasonography 2021; 41:34-52. [PMID: 34674456 PMCID: PMC8696136 DOI: 10.14366/usg.21069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Musculoskeletal ultrasonography (US) has unique advantages, such as excellent spatial resolution for superficial structures, the capability for dynamic imaging, and the ability for direct correlation and provocation of symptoms. For these reasons, US is increasingly used to evaluate problems in small joints, such as the foot and ankle. However, it is almost impossible to evaluate every anatomic structure within a limited time. Therefore, US examinations can be faster and more efficient if radiologists know where to look and image patients with typical symptoms. In this review, common etiologies of heel pain are discussed in a problem-based manner. Knowing the common pain sources and being familiar with their US findings will help radiologists to perform accurate and effective US examinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Hee Kim
- Department of Radiology, SMG-SNU Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jee Won Chai
- Department of Radiology, SMG-SNU Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Radiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dong Hyun Kim
- Department of Radiology, SMG-SNU Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Radiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyo Jin Kim
- Department of Radiology, SMG-SNU Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Radiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jiwoon Seo
- Department of Radiology, SMG-SNU Boramae Medical Center, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Radiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Park DJ, Lee KS, Park SY. Effects of Two Foot-Ankle Interventions on Foot Structure, Function, and Balance Ability in Obese People with Pes Planus. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:667. [PMID: 34205155 PMCID: PMC8229031 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9060667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Obese people are prone to foot deformities such as flat feet. Foot management programs are important to prevent them. This study investigated the effects of two foot-ankle interventions on balance ability, foot arch, ankle strength, plantar fascia thickness, and foot functions in obese people with pes planus for four weeks. The experiment was designed as a randomized controlled trial. Twenty-four participants who met the inclusion criteria were selected, and they were randomly assigned to either a short foot group (SFG) or proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation group (PNFG) according to foot-ankle intervention. Two interventions were commenced three times a week for 20 min over four weeks. The tests were conducted at two intervals: pre-intervention and at four weeks. The tests were conducted in the following order: the patient-specific functional scale test (PSFS), an ultrasound of the plantar fascia, the navicular drop test, balance test, and the four-way ankle strength test. Two groups showed significant differences in balance ability, foot arch, ankle strength, plantar fascia thickness, and foot functions between pre-test and post-test (p < 0.05). PNFG had significantly higher dorsiflexor and invertor strength than SFG (p < 0.05). SF and PNF interventions were effective to improve balance ability, foot arch, ankle strength, plantar fascia thickness, and foot functions in obese people with pes planus. Additionally, PNF intervention is more beneficial in increasing the dorsiflexor and invertor strength compared to SF intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Du-Jin Park
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health Sciences, Catholic University of Pusan, Busan 46252, Korea;
| | - Kyung-Sun Lee
- Department of Industrial Health, College of Health Sciences, Catholic University of Pusan, Busan 46252, Korea;
| | - Se-Yeon Park
- Department of Physical Therapy, Uiduk University, Gyeongju 38004, Korea
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Heinen EH, Lima KMME, Correia R, Diefenthaeler F, de Brito Fontana H. Reliability in ultrasound measurements of plantar aponeurosis thickness. Foot (Edinb) 2021; 46:101749. [PMID: 33285494 DOI: 10.1016/j.foot.2020.101749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/11/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Given the increasing research interest in ultrasound plantar aponeurosis (PA) thickness measurements, this study aimed to analyze the inter and intra-rater reliability of independent sonograms and to identify the error related to the image analysis procedure. METHODS Twenty-one healthy men participated in this study. Imaging of PA consisted of two independent sonograms per subject. Two raters (R1 and R2) evaluated each sonogram twice using standardized steps. Precision of the image analysis procedure was analyzed using the Bland and Altman plot and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC). Agreement estimates and ICC were used to assess absolute and relative inter and intra-rater reliability. RESULTS Reliability of PA thickness was found to depend strongly on the number of images acquired per subject. Intra-rater agreement for single measurements were 0.696 (R1) and 0.495 (R2), whereas average measurements yielded values of 0.821 (R1) and 0.662 (R2), respectively. Precision within a sonogram varied from ICC values of 0.873 to 0.960 (intra-rater) and 0.670 to 0.822 (inter-rater). CONCLUSION Most part of the error in PA thickness measurements seems to be related to the sonogram acquisition process and not to the visual inspection of the image. To minimize error, average values of a minimum of two images per subject should be used. The moderate agreement between raters found in this study ratifies the need of all measurements being made by the same rater or group of raters. If a single rater evaluates all subjects, performing multiple measurements over one image does not seem to affect ICC as much as acquiring multiple images.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduarda Heydt Heinen
- Biomechanics Laboratory, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, 88.040-900, Brazil.
| | - Kelly Mônica Marinho E Lima
- Health Sciences Department, School of Science, Technology and Health, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Araranguá, 88.906-072, Brazil.
| | - Raissa Correia
- Biomechanics Laboratory, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, 88.040-900, Brazil.
| | - Fernando Diefenthaeler
- Biomechanics Laboratory, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, 88.040-900, Brazil; Physical Eduaction Department, School of Sports, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, 88.040-900, Brazil.
| | - Heiliane de Brito Fontana
- Biomechanics Laboratory, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, 88.040-900, Brazil; Morphological Sciences Department, School of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, 88.040-900, Brazil.
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Kaymaz S, Alkan H, Cobankara V, Karasu U. The relationship between disease activity, quality of life, functional status, spinal mobility, heel enthesitis, and cartilage thickness in patients with axial spondyloarthritis: A cross-sectional study. INDIAN JOURNAL OF RHEUMATOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.4103/injr.injr_64_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Ostermann S, Olesen JL, Holden S, Riel H. Stretching and relaxing the plantar fascia may change plantar fascia thickness but not pressure pain thresholds: a cross-sectional study of patients with plantar fasciopathy. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2020; 21:804. [PMID: 33272236 PMCID: PMC7713346 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-020-03833-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Despite the established relevance of ultrasonography and assessment of pressure pain thresholds in patients with plantar fasciopathy, patient and probe positioning has been mostly ignored and are not necessarily reported in research. The primary aim of this study was to compare plantar fascia thickness in stretched and relaxed positions in patients with plantar fasciopathy. The secondary aim was to compare plantar heel pressure pain thresholds in these positions. Methods In this cross-sectional study, we measured the plantar fascia thickness with ultrasonography, and localised pressure pain thresholds using pressure algometry of 20 patients with plantar fasciopathy. These were assessed bilaterally, with the plantar fascia in both a stretched and relaxed position. In the stretched position, toes were maximally dorsiflexed, while in the relaxed position participants’ feet were hanging freely over the end of the table. Results The plantar fascia of the most symptomatic foot was significantly thicker when stretched compared with the relaxed position (sagittal: mean difference 0.2 mm, 95%CI: 0.1–0.4, P = 0.013; frontal: mean difference − 0.27, 95%CI: − 0.49 to − 0.06, P = 0.014). The plantar fascia was significantly thinner in the frontal plane compared with the sagittal plane in both positions (stretched: mean difference − 0.2 mm, 95%CI: − 0.42 to − 0.03, P = 0.025; relaxed: mean difference − 0.3 mm, 95%CI:-0.49 to − 0.08, P = 0.008). There was no difference between pressure pain thresholds in stretched or relaxed positions in either foot (P > 0.4). Conclusions The plantar fascia was significantly thicker in a stretched compared with a relaxed position and in the sagittal compared with the frontal plane, but differences were smaller than the standard deviation. Pressure pain thresholds were not different between the positions. These results highlight the importance of how ultrasonography is performed and reported in research to allow for replication. Trial registration The study was pre-registered September 25th, 2017 on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03291665).
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Ostermann
- Center for General Practice at Aalborg University, Fyrkildevej 7, 9220, Aalborg East, Denmark
| | - Jens Lykkegaard Olesen
- Center for General Practice at Aalborg University, Fyrkildevej 7, 9220, Aalborg East, Denmark
| | - Sinéad Holden
- Center for General Practice at Aalborg University, Fyrkildevej 7, 9220, Aalborg East, Denmark
| | - Henrik Riel
- Center for General Practice at Aalborg University, Fyrkildevej 7, 9220, Aalborg East, Denmark.
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Franettovich Smith MM, Collins NJ, Mellor R, Grimaldi A, Elliott J, Hoggarth M, Weber Ii KA, Vicenzino B. Foot exercise plus education versus wait and see for the treatment of plantar heel pain (FEET trial): a protocol for a feasibility study. J Foot Ankle Res 2020; 13:20. [PMID: 32384905 PMCID: PMC7206811 DOI: 10.1186/s13047-020-00384-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Plantar heel pain (PHP) is present in a wide range of individuals and creates significant burden to quality of life and participation in physical activity. The high recurrence rates and persistence of PHP suggests current management options may not address all potentially modifiable factors associated with the condition. Reports of intrinsic foot muscle (IFM) atrophy in individuals with PHP, together with biomechanical evidence of their important contribution to optimal foot function, suggests that an intervention focused on IFM training may be beneficial in managing PHP. We will test the feasibility of a prospective, assessor-blinded, parallel-group, randomised clinical trial that compares foot exercise plus education to brief advice in individuals with PHP. Methods Twenty participants with PHP will be randomly allocated to one of two groups for a 12-week intervention period: (i) foot exercise plus education, or (ii) brief advice. The foot exercise plus education group will attend eight sessions with a physiotherapist and receive detailed education on self-management strategies as well as a progressive exercise program for the IFMs. The brief advice group will attend one session with a physiotherapist and receive brief information about self-management strategies and reassurance. Outcome measures will be obtained at baseline and the primary end-point of 12 weeks. Primary outcomes will be the feasibility of conducting a full-scale randomised clinical trial (RCT), and the credibility and acceptability of the foot exercise plus education intervention. Secondary outcomes will explore treatment effects, which will consist of pain, physical function, physical activity level, pain self-efficacy, perceived treatment effect, magnetic resonance and ultrasound image measurement of IFM morphology, ultrasound imaging measurement of plantar fascia thickness, IFM motor performance, foot posture, foot mobility, ankle dorsiflexion range of motion, toe flexor and plantar flexor strength/endurance. Discussion To reduce the burden of PHP on individuals and society, there is a need to establish effective treatments that are feasible and accepted by patients and health professionals. This trial will be the first to evaluate the feasibility of conducting a full-scale RCT, as well as the credibility, acceptability, and treatment effects, of education and foot exercise for PHP. The findings of this study will inform the development of a full-scale RCT. Trial registration The trial protocol was prospectively registered with the Australia and New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (ACTRN12619000987167) on 11th July 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melinda M Franettovich Smith
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia.
| | - Natalie J Collins
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia.,La Trobe Sport and Exercise Medicine Research Centre, School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, College of Science, Health and Engineering, La Trobe University, Melbourne, 3086, Australia
| | - Rebecca Mellor
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
| | - Alison Grimaldi
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia.,PhysioTec Physiotherapy, Brisbane, Queensland, 4121, Australia
| | - James Elliott
- Faculty of Medicine and Health and The Kolling Research Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia.,Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Mark Hoggarth
- Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kenneth A Weber Ii
- Systems Neuroscience and Pain Lab, Division of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | - Bill Vicenzino
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, 4072, Australia
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Three-Dimensional Ankle Exercise with Combined Isotonic Technique for an Obese Subject with Plantar Fasciitis: A Case Study. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 56:medicina56040190. [PMID: 32326179 PMCID: PMC7230447 DOI: 10.3390/medicina56040190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Background and objectives: Obese people have many foot-related disorders and plantar fasciitis (PF) is the most common disorder among them. However, research on the role of therapeutic exercises in PF is lacking and there is no evidence to suggest its benefits. As such, a further insight into therapeutic exercises is needed within this group. This case study investigated the effect of three-dimensional (3D) ankle exercises using a combined isotonic (CI) technique on function and balance in an obese subject with PF. Material and methods: The subject in this study was a 28-year-old obese woman who was diagnosed with PF by an orthopedic surgeon. A 3D ankle exercise program was commenced three times a week for 15 min over 4 weeks. The evaluations were conducted at five intervals: pre-test, and at 1, 2, 3 and 4 weeks from the initiation of the intervention. The tests were conducted in the following order: the patient-specific functional scale test (PSFS), an ultrasound of the plantar fascia, the heel pressure and balance test, the pressure pain threshold (PPT), and the 4-way ankle strength test. Results: The mean score of the PSFS test reduced by 70.55% after 4 weeks of the intervention. The thickness of the plantar fascia and heel pressure measured during single-leg standing decreased by 6.67% and 10.37%, respectively, after 4 weeks of the intervention. The anteroposterior and medial-lateral balance ability showed improvements of 8.29% and 8.61%, respectively, after 4 weeks of the intervention. The PPT improved by 38.01% after 4 weeks of the intervention. In the 4-way ankle strength test, dorsiflexion, plantar flexion, inversion, and eversion increased by 14.46%, 9.63%, 4.3% and 13.25%, respectively, after 4 weeks of the intervention. Conclusion: 3D ankle exercises utilizing the CI technique were shown to be effective in improving foot function, pressure pain, and muscle strength in dorsiflexion and inversion in an obese patient with PF.
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Zhou JP, Yu JF, Feng YN, Liu CL, Su P, Shen SH, Zhang ZJ. Modulation in the elastic properties of gastrocnemius muscle heads in individuals with plantar fasciitis and its relationship with pain. Sci Rep 2020; 10:2770. [PMID: 32066869 PMCID: PMC7026110 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-59715-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The objectives of this study were (1) to investigate the passive stiffness of the medial gastrocnemius (MG) and lateral gastrocnemius (LG) in patients with and without plantar fasciitis (PF), (2) to explore the correlation between gastrocnemius stiffness and plantar fascia thickness (PFT) as well as the intensity of pain in patients with PF, (3) to detect optimal cut-off points for stiffness of the MG and LG for identifying patients with PF. Forty patients (mean age = 51.1 years ± 12.9) participated in this study. The elastic properties of the MG and LG were quantified using shear wave elastography ultrasound. The thickness of the plantar fascia was measured by B-mode imaging. The intensity of pain was assessed using a visual analogue scale. The results showed that when the ankle was in the relaxed position, patients with PF had increased passive stiffness in the MG (P < 0.05) but not in the LG. Significant correlations were found between pain and the stiffness of the MG (middle, distal; all P-values < 0.05) and no correlation was observed between pain and PFT (P = 0.416). The initial cut-off point for the stiffness of the MG was 29.08 kPa when the ankle was in the relaxed position. The findings from the present study show that an increase in muscle stiffness is not the same in the individual muscles of the gastrocnemius muscle. Traditional treatment of the whole gastrocnemius muscle might not be targeted at the tight muscle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Ping Zhou
- Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia-Feng Yu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ya-Nan Feng
- Luoyang Orthopedics Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China
| | - Chun-Long Liu
- Clinical Medical College of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Rehabilitation, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Pan Su
- Luoyang Orthopedics Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China
| | - Su-Hong Shen
- Luoyang Orthopedics Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China
| | - Zhi-Jie Zhang
- Luoyang Orthopedics Hospital of Henan Province, Luoyang, China.
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Technical report: dynamic assessment of plantar fasciitis and plantar fascia tears utilising dorsiflexion of the great toe. J Ultrasound 2019; 23:397-400. [PMID: 31721101 DOI: 10.1007/s40477-019-00411-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Discrimination between plantar fasciitis and partial tears of the plantar fascia can be difficult on ultrasound given laxity of the plantar fascia in the region of its calcaneal insertion and anisotropy. Dynamic assessment with great toe dorsiflexion can improve visualisation of the proximal portion of the plantar fascia on ultrasound, by straightening the plantar fascia due to the windlass mechanism. This article describes the technique and its anatomical basis.
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Granado MJ, Lohman EB, Daher NS, Gordon KE. Effect of Gender, Toe Extension Position, and Plantar Fasciitis on Plantar Fascia Thickness. Foot Ankle Int 2019; 40:439-446. [PMID: 30413134 DOI: 10.1177/1071100718811631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Ultrasound is a widely used diagnostic tool for patients with plantar fasciitis. However, the lack of standardization during the measurement for plantar fascia thickness has made it challenging to understand the etiology of plantar fasciitis, as well as identify risk factors, such as gender. The purpose of this study was to investigate gender differences regarding plantar fascia thickness while controlling for metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint position in the healthy and those with unilateral plantar fasciitis. METHODS: Forty participants (20 with unilateral plantar fasciitis and 20 controls) with plantar fascia thickness (mean age, 44.8 ± 12.2 years) participated in this study. The majority were females (n = 26, 65%). Plantar fascia thickness was measured via ultrasound 3 times at 3 different MTP joint positions: (1) at rest, (2) at 30 degrees of extension, and (3) at maximal extension. RESULTS: When comparing gender differences, the males in the plantar fasciitis group had a significantly thicker plantar fascia than the females ( P = .048, η2 = 2.35). However, no significant differences were observed between healthy males and females. The males with unilateral plantar fasciitis also had significantly thicker asymptomatic plantar fasciae collectively compared with controls ( P < .05), whereas females with unilateral plantar fasciitis had a similar but not significant change. CONCLUSION: It appears that healthy males and females have similar plantar fascia thickness. However, as plantar fasciitis develops, males tend to develop thicker plantar fasciae than their female counterparts, which could have future treatment implications. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, case-control comparative study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Granado
- 1 School of Allied Health Professions, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Everett B Lohman
- 2 Department of Physical Therapy, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Noha S Daher
- 1 School of Allied Health Professions, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA, USA
| | - Keith E Gordon
- 3 Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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14
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Pękala PA, Kaythampillai L, Skinningsrud B, Loukas M, Walocha JA, Tomaszewski KA. Anatomical variations of the plantar fascia's origin with respect to age and sex-an MRI based study. Clin Anat 2019; 32:597-602. [PMID: 30701591 DOI: 10.1002/ca.23342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2019] [Revised: 01/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The plantar fascia (PF) plays a significant role in ankle movement and anatomical variations of this structure may significantly alter the biomechanical properties of the foot and lower extremity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the changes of the PF's origin point on the calcaneus (CB), and whether these changes are dependent on age and sex. Two independent observers evaluated two hundred and two foot and ankle MRIs and the following measurements was performed: (A) horizontal length of the AT insertion into the posterior aspect of the CB, (B) horizontal length of the CB and (C) horizontal distance from the most anterior point of the CB to the most posterior part of the PF. Statistical analysis was performed with the results obtained to evaluate both sex and age differences. Based on our results, we observed that: (1) changes of the PF's origin point on the CB is independent of age and sex and (2) the continuity between the PF and AT decreases during aging as a result from changes in the AT's insertion point into the CB. This study concludes that the PF's origin point does not change with respect to age or sex, but the continuity between the PF and AT decreases during aging. Knowledge regarding the biomechanical influences caused by changes in the relationship between the AT and PF may be important in terms of treatment and prophylaxis of both PF and AT pathologies. Clin. Anat. 32:597-602, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Przemysław A Pękala
- International Evidence-Based Anatomy Working Group, Krakow, Poland.,Department of Anatomy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Lourdes Kaythampillai
- International Evidence-Based Anatomy Working Group, Krakow, Poland.,Department of Anatomy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Bendik Skinningsrud
- International Evidence-Based Anatomy Working Group, Krakow, Poland.,Department of Anatomy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Marios Loukas
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, St. George's University School of Medicine, Grenada, West Indies
| | - Jerzy A Walocha
- International Evidence-Based Anatomy Working Group, Krakow, Poland.,Department of Anatomy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Krzysztof A Tomaszewski
- International Evidence-Based Anatomy Working Group, Krakow, Poland.,Department of Anatomy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
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