Advice on Foot Care

Plantar Fascia Tear Plantar fasciitis is a condition which results from microscopic tears within the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia, a ligament-type structure in the foot, is one of the most important structures in the foot due to it’s role in supporting the arch. Despite it’s strength, excess stress in combination with abnormal mechanics of the foot can result in small tears within the fascia. In the illustration to the left, a tear in the plantar fascia is highlighted. An up-close view shows a microscopic image of the tearing in the ligamentous structure.

The plantar fascia is not considered a ligament, but it’s structure is very similar as it’s composed primarily of collagen fibers which run longitudinally in a highly organized fashion. When the fascia is torn, the collagen fibers unravel, separate and fragment. The appearance is similar to a frayed rope. Below is a microscopic image of the collagen fibers in a healthy ligament on the left and in a torn ligament on the right. Notice the parallel arrangement and the organization of the structure in the image on the left. In the image on the right, there is fraying, separation and disorganization.

Ligament Structure

After an injury, such as a microscopic tear, the strength of the plantar fascia decreases. When the weakened fascia is placed under the same load, there is a greater chance for re-injury. Small tears will progress to larger tears. The body responds with inflammation in an attempt to heal the injured area. Repeated microtrauma delays the normal healing process and eventually the plantar fascia starts to deteriorate. This condition is known as plantar fasciosis. Early diagnosis and treatment of plantar fasciitis will result in a more rapid recovery.

More information and treatment information on plantar fasciitis.

View our five part series on plantar fasciitis, plantar fasciosis and plantar fascia structure.