Plantar fasciitis vs plantar fasciosis

We all got together this morning at Myfootshop.com for coffee and discussion regarding products and conditions. Since plantar fasciitis is such a common problem, we've been spending a few weeks on the topic. Part of the discussion this morning focused on the differences between acute and chronic plantar fasciitis, also known as plantar fasciitis and plantar fasciosis.

The language of medicine can be confusing to many folks, but like any other language, when you break the big words down into their component parts, the language starts to make sense. In the language of medicine, the root forms, prefixes, and suffixes all take on significant meaning. For instance, the suffix 'itis' always refers to a condition that includes inflammation. Think bronchitis or appendicitis. The suffix 'osis', on the other hand, refers to a non-inflamed state of being. Think tuberculosis or sarcoidosis.

In cases of plantar heel pain, the most common term used to describe the inflammation at the insertion of the plantar fascia is the term plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is used to describe the acute, inflamed state. Studies have proven that after a period of time, typically months, the inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis fades. Tissue biopsies of the plantar fascia and surrounding soft tissue show no inflammation. In cases of long term plantar fasciitis, the more appropriate term used to describe the condition would be plantar fasciosis.

Plantar fasciosis - treatment by a restart of the inflammatory process

There are some clinicians who believe that if you can restart the inflammation of the soft tissue surrounding the plantar heel, there would be a strong likelihood that the body's own chemical and cellular properties of healing would get a second chance to correct the inflammation of the fascia. A number of techniques are used to create or stimulate inflammation. These techniques include needling, Topaz surgery and shock wave therapy.

Plantar fasciosis - Treatment Approaches

Some clinicians advocate for restarting the inflammatory process surrounding the plantar heel tissues to harness the body's natural healing properties. Techniques to induce or stimulate inflammation include needling, Topaz surgery, and shock wave therapy.

Recommended Products

During our discussion, one standout product we highlighted was the Plantar Fasciitis Reliever. This firm gel heel pad incorporates adjustable firm bars designed to stimulate the plantar fascia, effectively massaging and potentially reinitiating the inflammatory response. This conceptually positions the Reliever as a non-surgical option to encourage the healing process in cases of plantar fasciosis.

Another valuable addition to our recommendations is the Quick Tape® Support Straps. These straps provide targeted support and compression to alleviate strain on the plantar fascia, promoting comfort and aiding recovery from both acute and chronic stages of plantar fasciitis.

It's fascinating how these insights unfold in our field, revealing pearls of wisdom that enhance our understanding and treatment of foot ailments.

Jeff

Jeffrey A. Oster, DPM
Medical Advisor
Myfootshop.com

Updated 04/10/25