If plantar fasciitis is suspected, how is this diagnosed?

• A. X-ray of the foot
• B. CT scan
• C. Physical exam
• D. Bone scan

Answer: (C)

Plantar fasciitis is diagnosed based on history and a focused physical exam. The typical story is heel pain at the bottom of the heel, often worst with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest, and tenderness when the plantar fascia is palpated at its attachment on the medial calcaneal tubercle. A clinician may also reproduce pain with maneuvers that tension the fascia, such as a windlass test. Imaging isn’t needed to confirm the diagnosis because this condition is clinical; X-rays are commonly obtained only to rule out other problems like fractures or other bony abnormalities if the presentation is atypical or symptoms persist despite treatment. CT or bone scans are not used to diagnose plantar fasciitis and are reserved for different concerns.