Influences of Plantar Impulse and Dynamic Longitudinal Arch Angle on Signs of Plantar Fasciitis in Long-Distance Runners

Abstract

This study evaluated plantar impulse, dynamic longitudinal arch (LA) angle, plantar fascia thickness (PFT), and pressure pain threshold (PPT) in 10 long-distance runners with plantar fasciitis (PF) and 10 controls without PF. The subjects were examined for PFT by ultrasonography. PPT score was determined using a pressure algometer. Moreover, the dynamic LA angle and the vertical ground reaction force were recorded using a motion capture system synchronized with a force plate during barefoot running at the speed of 3 to 3.67 m·s-1 in the laboratory. An independent t-test was used to analyze differences between the PF and Control Groups. Runners with PF showed significant differences in braking (P=0.017) and propulsive (P=0.034) impulses, braking (P=0.043) and propulsive (P=0.004) LA angles, PFT (P<0.001), and the PPT score (P< 0.001) compared to runners without PF. Understanding the plantar impulse and dynamic LA angle during running related to PFT and pain perception may potentially improve the assessment and rehabilitation of PF in long-distance runners.