Gastrocnemius Recession vs. Conservative Treatment for Chronic Plantar Fasciitis

Gastrocnemius Recession vs. Conservative Treatment for Chronic Plantar Fasciitis. A Randomized Controlled Trial.

The purpose of the study is to compare the clinical results for patients suffering from plantar fasciitis treated with gastrocnemius recession vs. conservative treatment.

All patients will be instructed in stretching exercises. Half of the patients will be randomized to proximal medial gastrocnemius recession. All patients will be followed for 1 year. Additional long term follow-up will be 6 years after inclusion

Inclusion Criteria:

• Symptoms of plantar fasciitis lasting more than 12 months.
• Isolated gastrocnemius contracture

Exclusion Criteria:

• No previous surgery to foot or ankle
• No active arthritis