American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What factor can aggravate symptoms of plantar fasciitis?

1. Wearing supportive shoes

2. Excessive running on soft surfaces

3. prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces

4. Regular stretching exercises

The correct answer is: prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain that occurs due to inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. One key factor that can aggravate symptoms of plantar fasciitis is prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces. When individuals spend extended periods on hard, unforgiving surfaces, it increases the stress and strain on the plantar fascia. This added pressure can lead to further irritation and inflammation of the tissue, exacerbating pain and discomfort. Hard surfaces do not provide adequate cushioning or support for the foot, making it challenging for the plantar fascia to recover from the microtrauma that occurs with normal activities. Therefore, individuals suffering from plantar fasciitis are often advised to limit activities that involve prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces to help manage their symptoms. Other factors like wearing supportive shoes and engaging in regular stretching exercises are typically beneficial for individuals with plantar fasciitis, as they can help reduce strain on the plantar fascia. Additionally, excessive running on soft surfaces can sometimes reduce the impact on the feet, although it may not be completely without risk. Understanding these relationships helps in developing effective management strategies for plantar fasciitis.