Plantar Fascia Tear

Plantar fascia rupture is characterized by an acute pain in the arch of the foot following a dynamic activity. It is a relatively uncommon injury. It is often associated with long standing flat feet deformity. Treatment is non-operative, with pain control, relative rest, gentle stretching and a gradual return to activities over a period of weeks to months.

The injury is usually quite painful and therefore initial treatment is generally oriented towards pain control with ice, crutches and limited activity. As the symptoms begin to settle, often 4-10 days after the original injury, it may be possible to do more weight bearing, provided that stiff soled comfort shoes or a protective walker boot is used. At this point, gentle plantar stretching can be done. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs) or pain medication can help with the symptoms. Return to reasonably normal standing or walking can occur relatively quickly in a few weeks. However, return to high level sports requiring sudden change of direction or explosive power through the plantar fascia region can be quite prolonged, in the order months.