title: Current treatment of plantar fasciitis.
abstract: Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common complaints of chronic rearfoot heel pain seen by primary care providers. The etiology and differential diagnosis are numerous, as are treatment options. This article includes a definition of plantar fasciitis, anatomy, predisposing factors, physical examination techniques, differential diagnosis, and conservative nonsurgical treatment options. Plantar fasciitis may be acute, but is more often a chronic condition that is directly related to physical activity. The most common complaint is intense heel pain with the first step from bed in the morning and initial step after resting. This pain subsides with time, but returns in the evening after prolonged standing.
authors.affiliation: Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Training Clinic, Branch Medical Clinic, PO Box 19501, Parris Island, SC 29905-9501, USA. tjmay@beaufort.med.navy.mil
authors.forename: Todd J
authors.initials: TJ
authors.lastname: May
authors.forename: Tom A
authors.initials: TA
authors.lastname: Judy
authors.forename: Michael
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Conti
authors.forename: James E
authors.initials: JE
authors.lastname: Cowan
mesh_terms: D000698:Analgesia / Q000379:methods; D001696:Biomechanical Phenomena; D002111:Calcaneus / Q000293:injuries; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D036981:Fasciitis, Plantar / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D015775:Fractures, Stress / Q000175:diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D008487:Medical History Taking / Q000379:methods; D010146:Pain / Q000209:etiology; D059408:Pain Management; D010808:Physical Examination / Q000379:methods; D020127:Recovery of Function; D012307:Risk Factors; D012775:Shoes