Examining how different terrains affect foot muscle strength in healthy people and those with plantar fasciitis

A Randomized Control Trial Studying the Effects of Terrain Variation on Intrinsic Foot Musculature in Healthy Individuals and Individuals With Plantar Fasciitis:

This study is testing how walking on different types of surfaces affects foot muscle strength in healthy people and those with plantar fasciitis.

Quick facts

• Phase: NA
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 60 (estimated)
• Ages: 18 Years to 100 Years
• Sex: All
• Sponsor: University of Florida (other)
• Locations: 1 site (Gainesville, Florida)
• Trial ID: NCT05075005 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the impact of terrain variation on the strength of intrinsic foot muscles in both healthy individuals and those suffering from plantar fasciitis. It aims to understand how modern footwear and a lack of varied terrain may contribute to foot pathologies by examining the relationship between terrain, muscle function, and structural changes in the foot. Participants will be divided into treatment and control cohorts to assess these effects over time.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals over 18 years old with chronic heel pain due to plantar fasciitis lasting more than 60 days.

Not a fit: Patients with recent foot or lower leg surgeries, certain neurological conditions, or those who have not experienced chronic heel pain may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment strategies for plantar fasciitis and enhance overall foot health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous observational studies have indicated that varying terrain may reduce the prevalence of foot pathologies, suggesting that this approach could be promising.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria for Group A:

* 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)
* Failure to respond to treatment modalities for 6 months, including plantar fascia and muscle stretching, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication, supportive insoles, and night splints
* Age \>18 years

Inclusion Criteria for Group B:

* Healthy individuals in the general population of Gainesville and surrounding areas
* Age \>18

Exclusion Criteria for Group A:

* 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
* Third trimester pregnancy

Exclusion Criteria for Group B:

* Any foot or lower limb pathology resulting in discomfort or gait limitation
* Diagnosis of diabetic neuropathy, fibromyalgia, neurological disease
* BMI \>35
* Currently taking or applying any anti-inflammatory medication or medication to control nerve pathology, prescription or over the counter
* Third trimester pregnancy

Where this trial is running

Gainesville, Florida

• UF Health Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Institute — Gainesville, Florida, United States (RECRUITING)

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Antony Merendino, DPM — University of Florida
• Study coordinator: Antony Merendino, DPM

Conditions: Plantar Fasciitis