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Risk factors for Plantar fasciitis: a matched case-control study
Daniel L Riddle1, Matthew Pulisic, Peter Pidcoe
1Department of Physical Therapy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia 23298, USA. dlriddle@vcu.edu
Plantar fasciitis risk is higher with limited ankle dorsiflexion, obesity, and prolonged standing. Reduced ankle flexibility is the most significant factor, increasing susceptibility to this common foot condition.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Sports Medicine
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Plantar fasciitis is a prevalent foot disorder with poorly understood causes.
- This study investigated potential risk factors using an epidemiological approach.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify risk factors for plantar fasciitis.
- Specifically examined limited ankle dorsiflexion, obesity, and weight-bearing duration.
Main Methods:
- A matched case-control study with 50 plantar fasciitis patients and 100 controls.
- Measured passive ankle dorsiflexion, body mass index (BMI), and work-related weight-bearing.
- Calculated adjusted odds ratios for identified risk factors.
Main Results:
- Limited ankle dorsiflexion (
- Obesity (BMI >30 kg/m²) elevated risk (OR 5.6).
- Spending most of the workday weight-bearing also increased risk (OR 3.6).
Conclusions:
- Reduced ankle dorsiflexion, obesity, and prolonged weight-bearing are independent risk factors for plantar fasciitis.
- Decreased ankle range of motion is the primary risk factor.
- These findings aid in understanding and potentially preventing plantar fasciitis.
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