Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Medicine - Department of Orthopedic Surgery

Background: Plantar fasciopathy is the most common cause of plantar heel pain. No enough evidence in literature strongly supports the effectiveness of any specific treatment for such conditions. Objectives: To assess the efficacy and safety of a partial plantar fascia release through a transverse incision. Patients and methods: A total of 20 feet in 13 patients with plantar fasciopathy for at least one year and resistant for at least two modalities of conservative treatment for six months were involved in this prospective study. All patients had been diagnosed clinically. Results: The mean of VAS score had improved from 86.3 preoperative to 15.2 after six months postoperative and the p value was 0.03 (statistically significant). While the mean of pain resolution improved from 0.45 preoperative to 2.85 six months postoperative according to criteria of kitaoka and the p value was 0.003 (statistically significant).The mean of foot-wear had improved from 0.4 preoperative to 2.65 postoperative according to criteria of kitaoka and the p value was 0.004(statistically significant).The mean of walking distance improved from 0.55 preoperative to 2.75 six months postoperative according to criteria of kitaoka and the p value was 0.008 (statistically significant). No static foot changes were observed according to criteria of kitaoka in all operated patients. Conclusion: Partial plantar fascia release through a transverse incision could be a viable alternative for management of chronic resistant plantar fasciopathy

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