16/06/2026
🦶Plantar fasciopathy (PF) is the most common cause of plantar heel pain and a leading musculoskeletal foot condition in both athletic and general populations.
⚡️ It typically presents as sharp heel pain with first steps in the morning or after rest, often easing with movement before returning with accumulated load.
💡”Plantar fasciitis” is still commonly used, but growing evidence suggests the condition is not primarily inflammatory. Histological findings instead point towards degenerative changes in the plantar fascia, supporting the term “plantar fasciopathy”.
☹️ Despite a wide range of treatments, long-term outcomes remain inconsistent, and the burden on healthcare systems and patients is substantial.
👣 Emerging research suggests that barefoot walking, particularly on natural surfaces, may help reduce symptoms by improving foot function and load tolerance. However, current studies are small and methodologically limited.
👩🎓 As part of my PhD, I’m currently recruiting for a randomised controlled trial comparing a progressive barefoot walking approach with standardised conservative care, including evaluation of clinical outcomes and cost-effectiveness.
🌍 Participation is open worldwide and can be completed remotely.
👉🏻 If you have ongoing plantar heel pain and would like to learn more, feel free to get in touch or click the LINK IN BIO 📲 Elisabetta Brigo🔹Physiotherapist
physiotherapy
