Effect of different orthotic concepts as first line treatment of plantar fasciitis.

Background: Evaluation of the effectiveness of three different types of prefabricated foot orthotics in the treatment of plantar fasciitis.

Methods: Prospective, randomized head-to-head trial in 30 adults (21 women, 9 men) with plantar fasciitis without any anatomic alterations. Three different prefabricated orthotics were tested (thin, non supportive orthotic (NO); soft supportive foam orthotic (FO); foam covered rigid self-supporting plastic orthotic (PO)).