Update on diagnosis of plantar fasciitis in runners: A common cause for plantar heel pain Update zur Diagnostik der Plantarfasziitis bei Läufern: Eine häufige Ursache des plantaren Fersenschmerzes

Greifenstein S, Hammer CM, Perl M, Grim C, Hotfiel T (2026)

Publication Type: Journal article, Review article

Publication year: 2026

Journal

Sport-Orthopädie, Sport-Traumatologie Elsevier

DOI: 10.1016/j.orthtr.2026.06.012

Abstract

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common running-related injuries and may result in prolonged absence from training and competition. Current scientific evidence supports an overuse and load-dependent degenerative process. A longer duration of symptoms is associated with poorer clinical and functional outcome, highlighting the need for early and accurate diagnosis. The assessment of medical history and risk factors as well as clinical examination have an important role for the diagnostic process and should particularly focus on characteristic pain patterns and functional status. Ultrasound imaging can be used to measure fascial thickness, with values above 4 mm being indicative of plantar fasciitis. This represents a valid, cost-effective and widely available imaging modality, suitable for both diagnostic confirmation and follow-up assessment. Additional imaging such as X-Ray or MRI are primarily indicated in cases of atypical symptoms or to exclude differential diagnoses. This review provides a structured overview of the diagnostic approach of plantar fasciitis in runners, aiming to facilitate reliable diagnosis and timely initiation of appropriate treatment.10.1016/j.orthtr.2026.06.012

Authors with CRIS profile

Simon Greifenstein Professur für Orthopädie und Orthopädische Chirurgie Mario Perl Lehrstuhl für Unfallchirurgie und Orthopädie Thilo Hotfiel Medizinische Fakultät

Involved external institutions

University of Fribourg / Universitè de Fribourg CH Switzerland (CH) Klinikum Osnabrück DE Germany (DE)

How to cite

APA:

Greifenstein, S., Hammer, C.M., Perl, M., Grim, C., & Hotfiel, T. (2026). Update on diagnosis of plantar fasciitis in runners: A common cause for plantar heel pain Update zur Diagnostik der Plantarfasziitis bei Läufern: Eine häufige Ursache des plantaren Fersenschmerzes. Sport-Orthopädie, Sport-Traumatologie. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.orthtr.2026.06.012

MLA:

Greifenstein, Simon, et al. "Update on diagnosis of plantar fasciitis in runners: A common cause for plantar heel pain Update zur Diagnostik der Plantarfasziitis bei Läufern: Eine häufige Ursache des plantaren Fersenschmerzes." Sport-Orthopädie, Sport-Traumatologie (2026).

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