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Plantar Fasciitis

Student’s Name

Institutional Affiliation

Instructor’s Name

Course Number: Course Name

Assignment Due Date

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Plantar Fasciitis

PICO Question: In adult patients with plantar fasciitis (P), how does a prefabricated orthotic

(intervention) compared to a dorsal night splint (C) improve one’s mobility (O)?

Introduction

The issue of plantar fasciitis, a common musculoskeletal condition affecting many adults,

has sparked a quest to determine the most effective interventions for improving mobility and

reducing suffering. This integrative review delves into the comparison between two such

interventions: prefabricated orthotics and dorsal night splints. It is crucial to explore this topic

comprehensively, as the well-being of patients with plantar fasciitis is at stake. This paper aims

to provide a comprehensive understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of these

interventions, helping healthcare providers, patients, and researchers make informed decisions.

Background and Significance

Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia,

often resulting in substantial discomfort and mobility limitations. As the prevalence of this

condition continues to rise, stakeholders, including patients, healthcare providers, and

researchers, are keen to identify effective interventions that can alleviate pain and enhance

mobility (Trojian & Tucker, 2020).

The two interventions under scrutiny- prefabricated orthotics and dorsal night splints,

serve distinct purposes in the management of plantar fasciitis. Prefabricated orthotics are

designed to provide support to the arch of the foot and distribute pressure evenly, potentially

reducing pain and improving mobility during daily activities (Chhabra & Singh, 2021). On the

other hand, dorsal night splints are worn overnight and are believed to alleviate pain by
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maintaining the foot in a dorsiflexed position, which can help stretch the plantar fascia (Rhim et

al., 2021).

The significance of this review extends to multiple dimensions. For patients, the impact

of plantar fasciitis is not limited to physical pain; it affects their overall quality of life, potentially

leading to decreased mobility, difficulty in performing daily tasks, and even loss of income due

to reduced work capacity. Families are also affected as they witness their loved ones suffering

and may have to assume caregiving responsibilities. Moreover, the societal burden of plantar

fasciitis includes healthcare costs, lost workdays, and decreased productivity.

The purpose of this integrative review is to critically assess existing literature,

synthesizing the current knowledge on the effectiveness of prefabricated orthotics and dorsal

night splints in improving the mobility of adult patients with plantar fasciitis. By addressing this

critical question, the aim is to provide insights that can guide both clinical practice and future

research in the field, ultimately contributing to the well-being of patients and reducing the

societal burden of this debilitating condition.

Several studies have explored the use of prefabricated orthotics as a conservative

intervention for plantar fasciitis. These orthotics are designed to provide arch support and

cushioning, to reduce pain and enhance mobility. Existing literature suggests that prefabricated

orthotics can offer some relief to patients with plantar fasciitis. For example, a study by

Guimarães et al. (2023) found that prefabricated orthotics were effective in reducing pain and

improving function in patients with plantar heel pain, a condition often associated with plantar

fasciitis. Similarly, Casale (2023) reported that patients who used prefabricated orthotics

experienced significant reductions in pain and improved quality of life. However, it is worth
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noting that the effectiveness of prefabricated orthotics may vary among individuals, and not all

patients may experience the same degree of improvement.

Dorsal night splints, another intervention commonly used in the management of plantar

fasciitis, aim to maintain the foot in a dorsiflexed position during sleep, which can help stretch

the plantar fascia and alleviate symptoms. Research on the effectiveness of dorsal night splints

has yielded mixed results. Some studies have suggested benefits in terms of pain reduction and

improved mobility. For instance, Celik et al. (2015) conducted a randomized controlled trial and

found that patients who used dorsal night splints experienced greater reductions in pain

compared to those who did not use them. However, other studies, such as the one by Latt et al.

(2020), have failed to demonstrate significant differences in outcomes between patients using

dorsal night splints and those employing other interventions. This variability in findings

highlights the need for a comprehensive review of the literature to draw more robust conclusions.

While the existing research provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of

prefabricated orthotics and dorsal night splints, several limitations and gaps in knowledge must

be acknowledged. First, the heterogeneity of study designs, outcome measures, and patient

populations across different studies makes it challenging to compare and generalize findings.

Moreover, the long-term effectiveness of these interventions and their impact on various aspects

of mobility, such as gait and physical activity, remain areas of ongoing investigation (Rabadi et

al., 2022). Additionally, factors such as patient compliance and individual variations in foot

anatomy may influence the outcomes of these interventions.

In summary, the literature on the use of prefabricated orthotics and dorsal night splints

for improving mobility in adult patients with plantar fasciitis is characterized by mixed findings
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and methodological variations. While some studies suggest potential benefits, the heterogeneity

of research designs and patient populations necessitates a comprehensive integrative review to

synthesize the existing knowledge and provide a more comprehensive understanding of these

interventions’ efficacy in addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by plantar fasciitis.

Methods

Sample and inclusion/exclusion criteria

To systematically identify relevant studies, specific inclusion and exclusion criteria were

established. Studies included in this integrative review had to meet the following criteria:

Inclusion criteria

1. Studies published in the English language.

2. Studies involving adult participants (18 years or older) diagnosed with plantar fasciitis.

3. Studies comparing the use of prefabricated orthotics to dorsal night splints as interventions.

4. Studies reporting outcomes related to mobility improvement.

Exclusion criteria

1. Studies involving pediatric populations.

2. Studies not published in English.

3. Studies not directly comparing prefabricated orthotics and dorsal night splints.

4. Studies lacking relevant outcome measures related to mobility improvement.

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5. Studies with unavailable full-text articles despite extensive efforts to obtain them.

Literature search

A comprehensive search was conducted using electronic databases, including PubMed,

Cochrane Library, and APA PsycNET. A combination of Boolean operators (AND, OR) and

MeSH terms was used in developing the search strategy. The following search terms and their

variations were employed:

1. Plantar Fasciitis

2. Plantar Heel Pain

3. Prefabricated Orthotics

4. Orthotic Devices

5. Dorsal Night Splints

Search outcome

The search yielded a total of 48 records across the three databases: 27 from PubMed, 9

from Cochrane Library, and 12 from APA PsycNET. After removing duplicates, 7 unique

records remained for final evaluation.

Data extraction and evaluation

The titles and abstracts of the identified studies against the inclusion and exclusion

criteria were subsequently reviewed. After this initial screening, 7 full-text articles were retrieved

for detailed evaluation. During the full-text review, any discrepancies were resolved through a

comparison of the content of each resource.

Data analysis
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The final results are summarized in a PRISMA diagram (in Figure 1 below) to provide a

visual representation of the study selection process. In the diagram, the included studies were

categorized based on their design and highlighted the number of studies in each category,

including randomized controlled trials (RCTs), qualitative studies, cohort studies, systematic

reviews, and others. The following table and the Prisma diagram summarize the findings of the

search strategy:

Keywords and PubMed Cochrane APA PsycNET

Boolean Library
operators
"AND" and
"OR"
((“Plantar 22 3 3
Fasciitis” OR
“Plantar Heel
Pain”) AND
(“Orthotic
Devices”))
((“Plantar 3 6 3
Fasciitis” OR
“Plantar Heel
Pain”) AND
(“Foot Splints”))
((“Plantar 2 0 3
Fasciitis” OR
“Plantar Heel
Pain”) AND
(“Prefabricated
Orthotics”)
((“Plantar 0 0 3
Fasciitis” OR
“Plantar Heel
Pain”) AND
(“Dorsal Night
Splints”))
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ent
ific
ati
on
Id

Records identified through database searching (n=342). The databases were PubMed,
Cochrane Library, and APA PsycNET. 27 from PubMed, 9 from Cochrane, and 12 from
APA PsycNET

Records after duplicates removed

Sc

en
re

in
g

(n = 48)

Records screened Records excluded

(n = 48) (n = 30)
Eligibi
lity

Full-text articles assessed for Full-text articles

eligibility (n=18) excluded (11)
Include

Studies included in
d

quantitative synthesis
(meta-analysis)

(n = 7)
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Following data extraction, the included studies will undergo a rigorous qualitative

synthesis to identify common themes, key findings, and variations in outcomes related to

mobility improvement in adult patients with plantar fasciitis. This synthesis will be presented in

the subsequent sections of this integrative review, providing a comprehensive overview of the

available evidence and insights into the comparative effectiveness of prefabricated orthotics and

dorsal night splints in addressing the mobility concerns of individuals with plantar fasciitis.

Theory: Lenz's theory of Unpleasant Symptoms

Introduction

Lenz's theory is a middle-range nursing theory that focuses on understanding and

addressing unpleasant symptoms experienced by patients in the context of their healthcare. It

seeks to explain the underlying causes and effects of these symptoms and provides a framework

for nursing interventions to alleviate them (Gomes et al., 2019).

Three main concepts

Symptom experience: This concept encompasses the patient's subjective experience of

physical and psychological symptoms (Gomes et al., 2019). It recognizes that symptoms are not

just biological but also influenced by the patient's perception, culture, and context.

Symptom management:: Lenz's theory emphasizes the importance of effective symptom

management, which involves assessing and intervening to reduce or eliminate symptoms (Silva-
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Rodrigues et al., 2019). This concept highlights the role of nursing interventions in improving

patients' symptom experiences.

Context of symptom experience: This concept acknowledges that symptoms are

influenced by various contextual factors, such as the patient's environment, social support, and

personal resources (Silva-Rodrigues et al., 2019). These factors interact with the symptom

experience and management process.

Application to the problem

In the context of plantar fasciitis and the comparative effectiveness of interventions,

Lenz's theory applies by recognizing that the experience of symptoms, such as pain and reduced

mobility, is not solely determined by the biological aspects of the condition. Factors like patient

perception, their support system, and even the chosen intervention (prefabricated orthotics or

dorsal night splints) can influence the symptom experience. For example, a patient's perception

of the effectiveness of a treatment (orthotics or splints) can affect their symptom experience.

Additionally, their social support network and access to healthcare resources can impact their

ability to manage symptoms effectively. Lenz's theory underscores the need for nurses and

healthcare providers to consider these complex interactions when addressing the multifaceted

problem of plantar fasciitis and its impact on patient mobility.

Literature Findings

There is a plethora of literature on plantar fasciitis and the various interventions for the

treatment of the disease. For example, Latt et. 2020 provide a comprehensive overview of the

assessment and management of chronic plantar fasciitis. The authors discuss various diagnostic

methods, including imaging techniques and physical examination findings, to aid in the accurate
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evaluation of this condition. The article emphasizes evidence-based treatment modalities, both

conservative and surgical, and offers insights into their efficacy. Given that the article is an

expert opinion, it carries level VII evidence.

In the study by Casale (2023), the research aimed to identify factors predicting positive

outcomes in the treatment of plantar fasciitis with orthotic intervention. They analyzed

retrospective data from 267 patient records, considering factors like gender, age, range of

motion, and concurrent physical therapy. Positive outcomes were more likely in females, those

with shorter symptom duration, and those receiving concurrent physical therapy. Among the

variables, concurrent physical therapy was the significant predictor (p=0.015). Sensitivity was

41.7%, specificity 56.0%, with a positive likelihood ratio of 0.93 (Casale, 2023). This study

suggests that combining physical therapy with orthotic treatment increases the odds of positive

outcomes, but additional factors warrant further investigation. The level of evidence for this

study is level IV, considering it is a cohort study.

In another study by Guimarães et al. (2023), the authors aimed to assess the impact of

various therapeutic interventions on pain caused by plantar fasciitis through a systematic review

and meta-analysis. The research included 236 studies with a total of 15,401 patients. Short-term

results indicated that several treatments, including botulinum toxin, amnion/chorion membrane

injection, dry needling, taping, laser therapy, myofascial releases, platelet-rich plasma,

radiofrequency, and stretching, were effective in alleviating pain. However, in the medium and

long term, only extracorporeal shock wave therapy showed significant pain improvement

compared to the control group. This suggests that a range of interventions can help manage

plantar fasciitis pain, with shock wave therapy being a viable option for sustained relief. The

level of evidence for this study is level I, considering it is a meta-analysis.

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Studies have also shown that prefabricated orthotics are an effective intervention in the

management of plantar fasciitis. For example, Xu et al.(2019) investigated the impact of 3D-

printed individualized ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) on plantar biomechanics and pain in patients

suffering from plantar fasciitis. The study aimed to assess the therapeutic potential of custom

3D-printed AFOs in managing this condition. This study examined changes in plantar

biomechanics and pain levels after the use of these personalized AFOs, shedding light on their

effectiveness as a treatment option for plantar fasciitis. The study supports the efficiency of

customized 3D printing AFO for reducing damage associated with plantar lesions and improving

comfort in patients with plantar fasciitis compared with prefabricated AFO. The level of

evidence for this study is level II given that it is a randomized controlled trial.

Research has also been conducted on the use of mechanical interventions in the treatment

of plantar fasciitis to improve the mobility of patients. For example, the study conducted by

Schuitema et al. (2019), aimed to assess the effectiveness of mechanical treatments for plantar

fasciitis. The researchers conducted a systematic review of relevant literature and found that

various mechanical interventions, such as orthotic devices, night splints, and shockwave therapy,

showed promise in providing relief from plantar fasciitis symptoms. However, they noted that

the quality of evidence varied across studies, indicating the need for further research to establish

the most effective mechanical treatments for this condition. This research study is a systematic

review and hence it provides level V evidence.

A dorsal night splint can improve one’s mobility. Plantar fasciitis (PF) is a prevalent

condition affecting 10-16% of the global population, characterized by subcalcaneal pain (Pereira

Bendo et al., 2023). This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of night splinting in alleviating

PF symptoms. Seven databases were searched, and a rigorous screening process led to the
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inclusion of three randomized clinical trials. Despite demonstrating that night splints can

enhance pain relief and function in PF patients, it is crucial to note that all three studies showed a

high risk of overall bias (Pereira Bendo et al., 2023). Therefore, while the findings suggest

potential benefits, the limited quality of evidence highlights the need for further, more robust

primary studies to firmly support the use of night splints in managing plantar fasciitis. The study

is a systematic review and hence it has Level V evidence.

Plantar heel pain, often associated with conditions like plantar fasciitis (PF), is a common

issue impacting foot function and causing discomfort under the heel. Traditionally, conservative

treatments like joint and soft tissue mobilization, self-stretching home programs, foot orthoses,

and night splinting have been employed. However, recent findings suggest that dry needling

(DN) can be an effective method for managing PF. In a case study by Hortz and Falsone (2022),

a 38-year-old female runner with persistent PF in her right foot was treated with DN over three

weeks along with a home exercise program. This DN intervention targeted various locations

along the foot and posterior chain, accompanied by electric stimulation. The patient experienced

reduced pain, improved functionality, and increased range of motion. This case highlights the

potential benefits of incorporating DN and home exercises in treating PF, showcasing positive

outcomes. The study by Hortz and Falsone is a case study and hence it has level IV evidence.

Level of evidence table

The following table is a summary of the levels of evidence for the studies reviewed:

2 4 6 7 9 11 14

Level I: Systematic review or X

meta-analysis

Level II: Randomized X

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controlled trial

Level III: Controlled trial

without randomization

Level IV: Case-control or X X

cohort study

Level V: Systematic review X X

of qualitative or descriptive

studies

Level VI: Qualitative or

descriptive study, Lit

Review, QI or EBP project

Level VII: Expert opinion X

Discussion

Introduction

Plantar fasciitis is a common and often debilitating condition characterized by

subcalcaneal pain that affects a significant portion of the global population (Pereira Bendo et al.,

2023). Over the years, numerous studies have been conducted to explore various interventions

for the assessment and treatment of this condition. In this discussion section, we will delve into

the key findings from recent literature, examining the diagnostic methods, treatment modalities,

and factors predicting positive outcomes in plantar fasciitis management. Additionally, we will

explore the impact of therapeutic interventions, including orthotics, shock wave therapy, dry

needling, and mechanical treatments, on pain relief and mobility in patients with plantar fasciitis.

Diagnostic methods and assessment

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Latt et al. (2020) provided a comprehensive overview of the assessment and management

of chronic plantar fasciitis, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based diagnostic methods.

They discussed the utilization of imaging techniques and physical examination findings to

facilitate accurate evaluation. Although their article is an expert opinion and carries level VII

evidence, it highlights the significance of an accurate diagnosis as a foundational step in the

treatment process.

Factors predicting positive outcomes

Casale (2023) conducted a study aiming to identify factors predicting positive outcomes

in plantar fasciitis treatment with orthotic intervention. Their retrospective analysis of patient

records indicated that concurrent physical therapy significantly predicted positive outcomes. This

finding underscores the potential benefits of combining physical therapy with orthotic treatment,

especially for patients with shorter symptom duration. However, further investigation is needed

to explore additional contributing factors.

Therapeutic interventions

Guimarães et al. (2023) conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis that included

236 studies with over 15,000 patients to assess the impact of various therapeutic interventions on

pain caused by plantar fasciitis. Their findings revealed a range of effective short-term

treatments, such as botulinum toxin, amnion/chorion membrane injection, and stretching.

However, in the medium and long term, only extracorporeal shock wave therapy demonstrated

significant pain improvement compared to the control group. This highlights the importance of

considering the duration of pain relief when selecting treatment options.

Xu et al. (2019) conducted a randomized controlled trial to investigate the impact of 3D-

printed individualized ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) on plantar biomechanics and pain in patients
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with plantar fasciitis. Their study supported the effectiveness of customized 3D-printed AFOs in

reducing damage associated with plantar lesions and improving comfort compared to

prefabricated AFOs. This research contributes level II evidence, strengthening the case for

personalized orthotic interventions.

Schuitema et al. (2019) conducted a systematic review to evaluate the effectiveness of

mechanical treatments for plantar fasciitis. They found promising results for various mechanical

interventions, including orthotic devices, night splints, and shockwave therapy. However, the

variability in the quality of evidence across studies suggests the need for further research to

establish the most effective mechanical treatments for this condition.

Pereira Bendo et al. (2023) conducted a systematic review to assess the effectiveness of

night splinting in alleviating plantar fasciitis symptoms. While their findings suggest potential

benefits in terms of pain relief and improved function, all three studies included in the review

showed a high risk of overall bias. This underscores the importance of conducting more robust

primary studies to firmly support the use of night splints in managing plantar fasciitis.

Dry needling (DN) as an alternative treatment

Hortz and Falsone (2022) presented a case study that explored the use of dry needling

(DN) as a treatment for persistent plantar fasciitis. This case study showcased positive outcomes,

including reduced pain, improved functionality, and increased range of motion in a patient

treated with DN along with a home exercise program. Although it is a case study and carries

level IV evidence, it offers a glimpse into the potential benefits of incorporating DN as an

alternative treatment method for plantar fasciitis.

Importance of the research results

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The research results discussed in the previous section hold significant importance within

the current literature on plantar fasciitis for several reasons. Firstly, the study by Guimarães et al.

(2023), which conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of various therapeutic

interventions for plantar fasciitis, contributes crucial evidence to the field. By analyzing a

substantial number of studies with a large patient population, it provides comprehensive insights

into the efficacy of different treatments. This study helps clinicians and researchers make

informed decisions when selecting the most appropriate interventions for their patients,

especially by highlighting the long-term benefits of extracorporeal shock wave therapy. It

addresses a gap in the literature by offering a detailed analysis of treatment effectiveness over

time.

Secondly, the research by Xu et al. (2019) on 3D-printed individualized ankle-foot

orthosis (AFO) contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting the use of personalized

orthotic interventions. This finding is particularly relevant in the current literature, as it aligns

with the trend toward personalized medicine. It emphasizes the importance of tailoring

treatments to individual patient needs, showcasing the potential benefits of custom 3D-printed

AFOs in improving patient comfort and reducing damage associated with plantar lesions. In a

field where orthotic interventions play a significant role, this study offers a valuable contribution.

In addition, the findings of Hortz and Falsone's case study (2022) on dry needling (DN)

as an alternative treatment for plantar fasciitis are noteworthy. While case studies are considered

lower on the evidence hierarchy, they provide essential preliminary insights. In the context of the

current literature, this study introduces the concept of DN as a potential treatment option for

persistent plantar fasciitis. This is particularly relevant in cases where conventional treatments
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may have limited success. It prompts further research and clinical exploration of DN as an

alternative therapy, adding diversity to the available treatment options.

Furthermore, the research results discussed in this section collectively contribute to a

more comprehensive understanding of plantar fasciitis and its management. They address various

aspects, from diagnosis and prediction of outcomes to treatment options and their long-term

effects. As such, they enrich the existing literature by providing a holistic view of the condition

and the interventions available. Therefore, these research results are important because they offer

evidence-based insights that can guide clinical practice and decision-making. They fill gaps in

the current literature, providing valuable data on treatment efficacy, personalized interventions,

and alternative therapies. As the field of plantar fasciitis management continues to evolve, these

findings play a crucial role in advancing our understanding and improving patient outcomes.

Personal reflection

Reflecting on the literature findings and results discussed in the previous sections, it is

evident that plantar fasciitis is a condition of significant concern, affecting a substantial portion

of the global population. The variety of studies examined here sheds light on multiple aspects of

the condition, its diagnosis, and various treatment modalities, contributing valuable insights to

both clinicians and researchers.

One key takeaway is the importance of accurate diagnosis. Latt et al.’s (2020) emphasis

on evidence-based diagnostic methods underscores the necessity of a thorough assessment to

guide treatment decisions. This aspect is particularly crucial given the diversity of interventions

available. Without a precise diagnosis, selecting the most suitable treatment becomes a

challenging task. The research by Casale (2023) regarding factors predicting positive outcomes

highlights the need for a tailored approach. It reinforces the idea that a one-size-fits-all treatment
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strategy may not be optimal for plantar fasciitis patients. Recognizing that concurrent physical

therapy significantly predicts positive outcomes suggests that a multifaceted approach,

combining interventions based on individual patient characteristics, may yield better results.

The meta-analysis conducted by Guimarães et al. (2023) provides a comprehensive

overview of therapeutic interventions, underlining the importance of both short-term and long-

term efficacy. This study underscores that pain management in plantar fasciitis is not a one-time

solution but rather a journey requiring consideration of the duration of relief. It also highlights

the potential of extracorporeal shock wave therapy as a viable option for sustained pain

improvement.

Another key takeaway is the relevance of AFOs. Xu et al.’s (2019) research on 3D-

printed AFOs aligns with the broader trend of personalized medicine. It signifies that custom-

made interventions may hold the key to better outcomes, as they are designed to address the

unique biomechanics of each patient. This insight challenges the conventional use of

prefabricated orthotics and encourages a shift toward more tailored approaches.

The study by Hortz and Falsone (2022) on dry needling serves as a reminder of the ever-

evolving nature of medical practice. While it is a case study with level IV evidence, it introduces

a novel approach to plantar fasciitis treatment. This could be especially significant for patients

who have not responded well to traditional interventions, sparking further exploration and

research in this area.

Therefore, the literature findings reflect the complexity of plantar fasciitis and its

management. They emphasize the importance of personalized approaches, accurate diagnosis,

and the consideration of long-term outcomes. The diversity of interventions discussed, from

shock wave therapy to 3D-printed orthotics and dry needling, illustrates the evolving landscape
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of plantar fasciitis treatment. As medical knowledge continues to expand, these findings will

serve as guideposts for healthcare professionals seeking to provide the best possible care to

patients dealing with this common and often challenging condition.

Shortcomings

While the literature discussed in the previous sections provides valuable insights into the

assessment and treatment of plantar fasciitis, it is important to acknowledge some of the

shortcomings present in these studies. One common limitation is the variable quality of evidence

across the research. For instance, some studies rely on expert opinions or case studies, which,

while informative, are considered lower on the hierarchy of evidence. This variability in study

designs and evidence levels can make it challenging to draw definitive conclusions and

formulate treatment guidelines. To address this limitation, future research should aim for higher

levels of evidence, such as well-designed randomized controlled trials, to provide more robust

data.

Another limitation is the lack of long-term follow-up in several studies. While short-term

outcomes are essential to assess initial treatment efficacy, the long-term effects of interventions

are equally crucial. For instance, Guimarães et al. (2023) noted that extracorporeal shock wave

therapy demonstrated sustained pain relief in the medium and long term. However, the long-term

impact of other interventions remains less clear. Future research should prioritize conducting

longitudinal studies to track patient outcomes over extended periods, providing a more

comprehensive understanding of the durability of various treatments for plantar fasciitis.

Additionally, considering the multifaceted nature of the condition, studies should explore the

potential for combined therapies and personalized treatment plans to optimize outcomes for

patients.
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Conclusion

The wealth of recent literature findings on plantar fasciitis and its treatment interventions

offer valuable insights into diagnostic methods, factors predicting positive outcomes, and various

therapeutic approaches. These findings highlight the importance of accurate diagnosis,

personalized orthotic interventions, and the potential benefits of combining physical therapy with

other treatments. Additionally, the effectiveness of shock wave therapy in the medium and long

term, as well as the promising results of dry needling, provide clinicians with valuable options

for managing this common and challenging condition. However, the variable quality of evidence

across studies underscores the need for further research to establish the most effective treatments

and interventions for plantar fasciitis.

References

Chhabra, M., & Singh, K. B. (2021). Current Concepts in Rehabilitation of Plantar Fasciitis. Acta

Scientific Orthopaedics (ISSN: 2581-8635), 4(7).

Casale, M. S. (2023). Identification of Positive Predicting Factors for Orthotic Intervention in

the Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis (Doctoral dissertation, Nova Southeastern University).

Celik, D., Kuş, G., & Sırma, S. Ö. (2016). Joint mobilization and stretching exercise vs steroid

injection in the treatment of plantar fasciitis: a randomized controlled study. Foot &

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Guimarães, J. D. S., Arcanjo, F. L., Leporace, G., Metsavaht, L. F., Conceição, C. S., Moreno,

M. V., ... & Gomes Neto, M. (2023). Effects of therapeutic interventions on pain due to

plantar fasciitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clinical Rehabilitation, 37(6),

727-746.
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Hortz, B. V., & Falsone, S. (2022). A Multisegmental Approach to Dry Needling Plantar

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Latt, L. D., Jaffe, D. E., Tang, Y., & Taljanovic, M. S. (2020). Evaluation and treatment of

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Rabadi, D., Seo, S., Wong, B., Chung, D., Rai, V., & Agrawal, D. K. (2022).

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Rhim, H. C., Kwon, J., Park, J., Borg-Stein, J., & Tenforde, A. S. (2021). A systematic review of

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fasciitis. Life, 11(12), 1287.

Schuitema, D., Greve, C., Postema, K., Dekker, R., & Hijmans, J. M. (2019). Effectiveness of

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Trojian, T., & Tucker, A. K. (2019). Plantar fasciitis. American Family Physician, 99(12), 744-

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