Diagnostic Imaging for Plantar Fasciitis

Imaging Modalities

• Ultrasonography is reasonable and inexpensive for recalcitrant cases, showing increased plantar fascia thickness (>4mm) and abnormal tissue signal, as recommended by the American College of Radiology 1
• MRI is the most sensitive imaging modality but typically unnecessary unless ruling out other pathology, according to the Journal of the American College of Radiology 2
• Ultrasound elastography demonstrates high diagnostic accuracy (95% sensitivity, 100% specificity) compared to standard ultrasound, as reported by the American College of Radiology 2 and the American College of Radiology guidelines 1