Creating new imaging tools to diagnose and predict treatment for heel pain
Official title: Development of diagnostic and prognostic ultrasound imaging biomarkers for plantar heel pain
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-10953166 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ultrasound techniques to help doctors better understand and diagnose heel pain, like plantar fasciitis, so they can offer more personalized treatments to those who are suffering.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | September 17, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,467,542 |
| NIH project number | 1R61AT012275-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10953166 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults experiencing plantar fasciitis or other related foot pain conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with foot pain not related to myofascial issues or those without any foot pain may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing advanced ultrasound imaging techniques to identify and assess myofascial pain, specifically targeting conditions like plantar fasciitis. By quantifying the biochemical and structural properties of affected tissues, the study aims to create a diagnostic biosignature that can accurately differentiate between various types of foot pain. Patients will be grouped based on their condition, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of imaging results to guide more personalized treatment options. The ultimate goal is to improve pain management strategies for individuals suffering from heel pain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and tailored treatments for patients with plantar heel pain.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using imaging techniques for diagnosing musculoskeletal pain, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chimenti, Ruth Louise Porter — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Chimenti, Ruth Louise Porter
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.