Dynamic stability in runners with and without plantar fasciitis

Abstract

BackgroundPlantar fasciitis (PF) is a common overuse injury experienced by runners. PF may decrease the ability of the plantar fascia to create tension and reduce stability of the foot. Stability of the foot is necessary for whole-body dynamic stability during running which consists of cyclical periods of single leg stance. Given that a major risk factor for running-related injury is previous injury, evaluating dynamic stability in runners with PF, runners with resolved PF, and healthy runners may elucidate differences between these individuals and clarify risk for secondary injury in these groups. Research questionIs dynamic stability reduced in runners with PF and runners with resolved PF compared to healthy runners? MethodsThirty runners were recruited for this retrospective comparative study based on mileage and injury status: current PF (PF), resolved PF (RPF), or healthy (CON). Kinematic and kinetic data were collected during running and dynamic stability was determined by time-to-contact (TtC) analysis for early, mid, and late stance to the anterior, posterior, medial, and lateral boundary of the foot. Dynamic stability was compared between groups one-way ANOVAs (α = 0.05) and Tukey post-hoc tests conducted when appropriate. Cohen’s d effect sizes (d) were reported for all TtC comparisons (small = 0.20, medium = 0.50, large = 0.80). ResultsTtC values were shorter in PF compared to the other groups to all boundaries during mid-stance. TtC was significantly greater in PF compared to RPF to the anterior boundary during late stance. SignificanceShorter TtC observed in PF compared to the other groups during midstance may indicate reduced dynamic stability during the most stable portion of running which may lead to increased injury risk.