Myofascial Stiffness of Plantar Fascia and Achilles Tendon in Individuals with Plantar Fasciopathy: An Observational Cross-Sectional Study
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
8-2023
Publisher
Elsevier
Source Publication
Musculoskeletal Science and Practice
Source ISSN
2468-7812
Original Item ID
DOI: 10.1016/j.msksp.2023.102781
Abstract
Background
Assessment of myofascial tissue stiffness have a role in identifying physical impairments in plantar fasciopathy (PF). It is still unclear which specific functional and tissue differences exist between individuals with PF.
Aim
To compare myofascial stiffness of plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, and triceps surae between symptomatic and asymptomatic limbs in individuals with PF and between individuals with and without PF.
Methods
Thirty nine individuals diagnosed with PF and individuals with no history of PF were recruited. Myofascial stiffness of the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, and triceps surae, range of motion, and clinical tests were performed. Mean difference (MD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated.
Results
Individuals with PF showed lower mean stiffness in Achilles tendon insertion (MD = −1.00 N/mm; 95%CI: -1.80,-0.21) on the symptomatic limb compared to the corresponding symptomatic limb in control group, a lower mean stiffness in plantar fascia (MD = −0.16 N/mm; 95%CI: -0.30, −0.01) on the symptomatic limb compared to asymptomatic limb, and a lower mean stiffness in the region 3 cm above the Achilles tendon insertion (MD = −0.79; 95%CI: -1.59, −0.00) compared to control. Individuals with PF showed fewer repetitions in heel rise test (MD = −3.97 reps; 95%CI: -5.83, −2.12) and in the step-down test (MD = −5.23 reps; 95%CI: -7.02, −3.44) compared to control.
Conclusions
Individuals with PF present reduced stiffness in Achilles tendon insertion and plantar fascia. The reduced stiffness was more evident in Achilles tendon in individuals with PF compared to individuals without PF. Individuals with PF showed lower performance in clinical tests.
Recommended Citation
Rabelo, Daniel Barreto; Figueira Freire, Ana Paula Coelho; Milagres Brandão, Fernanda Colen; Melo, Sabrina Oliveira; Ocarino, Juliana M.; Saldanha dos Anjos, Marco Tulio; Schleip, Robert; Souza, Thales R.; Simoneau, Guy G.; and Pinto, Rafael Zambelli, "Myofascial Stiffness of Plantar Fascia and Achilles Tendon in Individuals with Plantar Fasciopathy: An Observational Cross-Sectional Study" (2023). Physical Therapy Faculty Research and Publications. 224.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/phys_therapy_fac/224
Comments
Musculoskeletal Science and Practice, Vol. 66 (August 2023). DOI.