Volume 3 Issue 4 - Winter 2008

by Scott R. Smith

Plantar fasciitisi is the inflammationii of the fascia (fibrous band of connective tissue) that connects the heel bone to the base of the toes. Stretching from the heel bone (calcaneous), the plantar fascia attaches to the bottom of the metatarsal bones around the ball of the foot. Acting as a bowstring, the plantar fascia provides support for the bottom of the foot (arch) (Sauer and Cooper 2007, p478). Pain is usually reported under the medial heel throughout weight bearing (Irving et al, 2007), but may be found along any portion of the plantar fascia. Pain can range from mild to debilitating. Some may use the terms plantar fasciitis and heel spurs interchangeably but this is inaccurate since heel spurs are a result, not the cause of the discomfort (Waller and Maddalo 1995, p351).iii The condition may last a short time, come and go, resolve by itself, or become chronic for unknown reasons. Most cases respond well to conservative treatment eliminating the need for surgery or any other invasive therapy.