Ultrasonographic Assessment of Indian Patients With Plantar Fasciitis and Its Clinical Correlation: A Prospective Observational Study

Introduction: Plantar fasciitis is a debilitating clinical condition and is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The risk factors include frequent and prolonged running, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, work-related weight bearing, and inappropriate footwear. Ultrasonography being a non-invasive, cost-effective, and easily available modality is a useful adjunct in the diagnosis. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted among 30 patients with unilateral plantar fasciitis. The diagnosis was based on history and examination. Heel pad thickness and plantar fascia thickness were recorded using ultrasonography. Results: The ultrasonography results showed increased plantar fascia and heel pad thickness in the affected limb with plantar fasciitis than the normal one (p<0.001). The BMI was positively correlated with the heel pad thickness (p<0.05). The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve showed 90% sensitivity and 60% specificity for heel pad thickness (p<0.001). Conclusions: Ultrasonography is a sensitive and specific tool to identify patients with plantar fasciitis.