Plantar fasciitis

Cause, clinical and ultrasound findings

• Plantar fasciitis is characterized by inflammation and microtearing of the calcaneal insertion of the plantar fascia; the condition is related to arthritis, weight bearing for long periods, improper shoes and excessive physical activity.

• Presentation includes burning, stabbing or aching pain and a tender area at the medial side of heel.

• Ultrasound findings are hypoechoic thickening of the calcaneal origin of the plantar fascia (>4 mm maximum thickness). Color Doppler signal rarely shows neovascularization.