Effect of Various Conventional Treatments on Plantar Fasciitis: A Brief Review

Plantar fasciitis is a painful ailment caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia characterised by heel pain. Plantar fasciitis is a degenerative syndrome of the plantar fascia caused by recurrent trauma to the calcaneus. The plantar fascia is a thick, multilayered fibrous connective tissue on the sole of the foot that aids in the creation of the longitudinal arch of the foot. It dynamically stabilises the medial longitudinal arch, restores the arch and helps in reconfiguration of the foot for efficient toe-off. Also, it provides static support to the longitudinal arch as well as dynamic shock absorption. The characteristic PF discomfort is localised around the medial tubercle of the calcaneus and arises after the first few steps in the morning or after a lengthy period of non-weight bearing activities. Standing or walking causes pain and tenderness on the sole of the foot, particularly under the heel. Keywords: plantar fasciitis, heel pain, Muscle stretching exercises, gluteal muscle strengthening