Modern footwear has been implicated as a contributor to foot pathology and changes in the biomechanics of gait. In addition to footwear, the investigators propose that the lack of terrain variation may directly contribute to the development of common foot pathologies, resulting from decreased intrinsic foot muscle function. This study will examine the current understanding of terrain variation on foot musculature strength and its possible correlation with structural and functional changes within the foot.
Patients presenting to the University of Florida Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Institute with pain on the plantar medial or central heel for greater than 60 days with the following features
Pain upon palpation, or insidious pain onset
Pain accentuated after long periods of weight bearing activities or after periods of rest
A reduction in pain following light activities (McPoil et al., 2008)
History of lower leg or foot surgery, hindfoot trauma or fracture of the affected limb within the previous year.
Diagnosis of diabetic neuropathy, fibromyalgia, neurological disease, Achilles tendinopathy, metatarsalgia, tarsal tunnel syndrome or heel pad syndrome
Body Mass Index (BMI) > 35
Currently taking or applying any anti-inflammatory medication or medication to control nerve pathology, prescription or over the counter