Degenerative plantar fasciitis: A review of current concepts

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause for heel pain and is the result of a degenerative process of the plantar fascia at its calcaneal attachment. Age, obesity, excessive weight bearing and tight Achilles tendon are the common predisposing factors. Though this is a self-limiting condition, the time for resolution of symptoms is highly variable. Commonly used treatments are rest, analgesics, heat and cold application, stretching exercises, splints and orthoses. Local infiltration with steroids, radiotherapy, extracorporeal shock wave treatment and surgery are used in more resistant cases. We review the current understanding and concepts in the treatment of this condition.