Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
JOURNAL OF FOOT AND ANKLE SURGERY, cilt.2025, ss.1-10, 2025 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
Objective: This study aims to evaluate the relationship between plantar fascia (PFa) thickness and the morphology and paratenon measurements of the Achilles tendon (AT) in individuals diagnosed with plantar fasciitis (PF) based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, and to investigate their role in PF development.
Methods: A total of 108 patients diagnosed with plantar fasciitis who underwent an ankle MRI between 2014 and 2024 were included in the study, along with a control group of 100 healthy individuals of similar age. In both groups, PFa thickness, AT anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) diameters, and AT paratenon dimensions (diameters and area) were measured. The presence of retrocalcaneal bursitis and Achilles tendinopathy was also assessed. Measurements were repeated by two observers, and interobserver agreement was evaluated.
Results: PFa thickness and AT, AP and ML diameters were significantly higher in the PF group compared to controls (p < 0.05). Women had significantly greater PFa thickness than men. Retrocalcaneal bursitis and Achilles tendinopathy were also significantly more common in the PF group (p < 0.001). A weak positive correlation was observed between PFa thickness and AT diameters in the control group. Interobserver measurement agreement was high (ICC > 0.8).
Conclusion: Individuals diagnosed with PF showed increased morphometric characteristics of the AT, indicating a possible mechanical linkage between the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon. The findings support the role of the AT and associated structures in the pathophysiology of PF, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive assessment of these structures in diagnosis and treatment.
Level of Clinical Evidence: 3 Keywords Plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendon, magnetic resonance imaging, morphometry, paratenon, retrocalcaneal bursitis