ANALYSIS OF THE CHARACTERISTICS AND THERAPEUTIC APPROACH OF PLANTAR FASCIITIS

Abstract

 This article sought to analyze, through a literature review, the health aspects of plantar fasciitis (PF), such as characteristics and treatments. PF is the result of degenerative irritation of the origin of the plantar fascia in the medial tuberosity of the heel calcaneus and surrounding structures. Patients often complain of heel pain that accompanies the first few steps in the morning after getting up. Others report heel pain after getting up from a prolonged sitting position. In long-standing cases, the pain may persist during walking and resting periods. The tenderness presented is usually caused inferiorly over the medial tubercle of the calcaneus. PF causes severe impairment of quality of life due to everyday pain. Thus, its appropriate treatment is essential and initially involves conservative therapy with physical exercises, physiotherapy, ice massage, and the use of anti-inflammatory or analgesic drugs. When there is no response to conservative treatment, corticosteroid injections and platelet-rich plasma are indicated to provide short-term pain relief. It is important to note that the condition is usually self-limiting, with most cases resolving spontaneously in about 12 months.