Objective: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the thickness of the plantar fascia (PF) at the insertion of the calcaneus and the midfoot and forefoot fascial locations, in addition to the thickness of the tibialis anterior, by ultrasound imaging in individuals with and without lateral ankle sprain (LAS).

Methods: A sample of 44 participants was recruited and divided in 2 groups: 22 feet with a prior diagnosis of grade 1 or 2 LAS (case group) and 22 feet without this condition (healthy group). The thickness and cross-sectional area were evaluated by ultrasound imaging in both groups.

Results: Ultrasound measurements of the PF at the calcaneus, midfoot, and forefoot showed statistically significant differences (P < .05), with a decrease in thickness in the LAS group relative to the healthy group. For the thickness and cross-sectional area of the tibialis anterior, no significant differences (P < .05) were observed between groups.

Conclusion: The thickness of the PF at the calcaneus, midfoot, and forefoot is reduced in individuals with LAS relative to the healthy group.

Article keywords: Ultrasonography; Diagnostic Imaging; Ankle Injuries

Author affiliations: CRM, SLL, MBA, ECT: Faculty of Sports Sciences, European University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain; MBDP: FisioFuenla Podiatry Care Center, Madrid, Spain; DLL: Research, Health and Podiatry Group, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Nursing and Podiatry, University of Coruña, Ferrol, Spain; CCL: Faculty of Nursing, Physiotherapy and Podiatry, Complutence University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.

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