Association of Footwear Characteristics with Plantar Fasciitis among Adults Attending a Tertiary Care Hospital in Western Odisha

Abstract

Background: Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of chronic heel pain among adults and significantly affects mobility and quality of life. Mechanical overload of the plantar fascia due to prolonged standing, obesity, and inappropriate footwear has been implicated in its pathogenesis. Footwear characteristics such as inadequate arch support, poor cushioning, inappropriate heel height, and hard soles may increase plantar fascia stress; however, evidence from eastern India remains limited.
Objectives: To evaluate the association between footwear characteristics and plantar fasciitis among adults attending the Orthopaedic outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital.
Materials and Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional observational study was conducted in the Department of Orthopaedics, Bhima Bhoi Medical College and Hospital, Balangir, Odisha, between January and February 2026. Fifty adults clinically diagnosed with plantar fasciitis were enrolled using convenience sampling. Information regarding demographic profile, occupation, BMI, footwear characteristics, duration of standing, heel height, sole hardness, arch support, duration of footwear use, and pain severity (Visual Analog Scale) was collected using a structured questionnaire and clinical examination. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0. Descriptive statistics were expressed as frequency, percentage, mean ± standard deviation. Chi-square test was used to determine the association between footwear characteristics and plantar fasciitis. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: Among 50 participants, females constituted 54% and males 46%. The majority belonged to the 20–30-year age group (40%), while 58% were overweight (BMI >25 kg/m²). Sandals (42%) and slippers (30%) were the most frequently used footwear. Hard-soled footwear (56%) and absence of arch support (96%) predominated. Severe heel pain (VAS) was reported by 48% of participants. Chi-square analysis demonstrated a statistically significant association between footwear type and plantar fasciitis (χ²=9.62; p<0.05).
Conclusion: Unsupportive footwear, particularly sandals and slippers lacking adequate arch support and cushioning, appears to be significantly associated with plantar fasciitis. Public awareness regarding appropriate footwear selection, especially among individuals with prolonged standing occupations, may contribute to prevention and improved clinical outcomes.