The Short Term Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis Using Simple “off the shelf “ Foot Orthoses

Objective. To determine the effect of off the self foot orthoses in the treatment of idiopathic plantar fasciitis. Methods. Thirty-four subjects with a clinical diagnosis of plantar fasciitis were evaluated using isotopic bone scan, ultrasound and physical examination as a baseline measure. A Foot Function Index (FFI), standardized orthopedic foot and ankle joint measures plus a navicular drop test were used to evaluate each patient’s physical baseline parameters at the being of the study. FFI and ultrasound were then repeated at 12 weeks post treatment. Plantar fascia thickness of less than 3mm was used as a definition of normal. Body mass index was also calculated for all subjects. After diagnosis of plantar fasciitis with the above techniques the subjects were issued with a pair of “off the shelf” arch supports (VASYLI devices). The subjects were asked to wear the orthoses for a three-month period (12 week period) and were then re-evaluated. Results. A significant (p < 0.05) reduction in all FFI scores was observed with over 90% of patients showing significant or total relief of plantar fasciitis symptoms. A direct correlation (p < 0.001) was found between increased thickness of the plantar fasciae in the right foot only with increased BMI and body weight. However, no correlation was seen between increased foot flattening and plantar fascia thickness or level of pain, disability or disability as defined by the FFI. This paper represents one part of a larger study entitled: “ Local corticosteriod injection therapy in plantar fasciitis: a randomized controlled trial”