BTW, the plantar fascia is a visco-elastic
structure and as such its material properties are dependent upon the rate of
loading. It will demonstrate hysteresis, plastic set and creep- Hence studies
employing dorsiflexory night splints have shown some success in Tx of resistant
cases. What also should be borne in mind is that the plantar fascia acts as a
store of elastic energy, particularly in running, becoming "loaded" at heel
strike when there is rapid pronation of the foot, and released with calcaneal
unweighting.
Best wishes,
Simon
**************************************************
Simon K. Spooner
PhD, BSc, SRCh
Lecturer Biomechanics
Plymouth School of Podiatry
North
Road West
Plymouth, UK
PL1
5BY
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----- Original Message -----
Sent: Tuesday, November 06, 2001 3:31
PM
Subject: Re: plantar fascia,
correct. It is largely
non-elastic and that's why we get the irritation at the attachments. It is
precisely at that weak point/tissue interface that I am referring to when I
mean and in commas "tighten up". Perhaps I should say seize up somewhat with
the products of repair mechanisms. I cannot see how taping a calcaneous into
supination could help anything. This sounds like trying to shift the pain
rather than the problem?
Surely some aspects of this are individual
genetics, some are training issues, some diet. Biomechanics about the subtalar
and midtarsal joint should be examined,. The role of soleus during gait
(eccentrically) should be examined as should hip joint rotation throughout
stance and pelvic stability at heal strike. One may speculate that this
individual lacks internal hip joint rotation either in supine or at 90 degress
hip flexion (compare it to the opposite side). Lack of hip extension or a
decrease in dorsiflexion will also cause an increased strain on the plantar
fascia.
Any more ideas?
