Ankle and foot

Plantar fasciopathy

Mechanism

Overload of the plantar aponeurosis at its attachment on the calcaneal tuberosity, usually from an increase in running load, a change of surface or decreasing ankle dorsiflexion.

Recognition

Start-up pain under the heel with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged sitting, easing on walking and increasing again later in the day. Tenderness on the medial edge of the heel.

Course

Stubborn but self-limiting: in about nine out of ten the complaint resolves within a year. The term fasciitis has been abandoned because no inflammation is found histologically.

Structures

• Plantar aponeurosis and gluteal aponeurosis
• Flexor digitorum brevis

Joints involved

• Ankle joint (talocrural joint)

Sources

• Cook J, Rodas G, McCall A, Pruna R, Kennedy R, Til L. Tendon injuries in football players: FC Barcelona 2021 tendon guide. The diagnosis and management of lower limb tendinopathy. FC Barcelona Innovation Hub. Barcelona. 2021