Gastrocnemius muscle thickness and its influence on physical performance among subjects with sarcopenia and plantar fasciitis. An ultrasonographic analysis

Ponni Priyanka A S, Rajeev Pulimi, Geetha Hari Priya G A, P. Antony Leo Aseer, Subbiah. K, Sharath Raj Mohan Doss

Ponni Priyanka A S, Rajeev Pulimi, Geetha Hari Priya G A, P. Antony Leo Aseer, Subbiah. K, Sharath Raj Mohan Doss – Gastrocnemius muscle thickness and its influence on physical performance among subjects with sarcopenia and plantar fasciitis. An ultrasonographic analysis –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(4); 173-178

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZGA431WLRG

Abstract
Background. Plantar fasciitis (PF) is a frequent source of heel pain, caused by repetitive strain, micro-tears, and inflammation of the plantar fascia. Age-related loss of gastrocnemius muscle thickness (GMT) and its functional impact in individuals with PF remains underexplored.
Aim. The study aimed to evaluate the influence of gastrocnemius muscle thickness (GMT) on physical performance in sarcopenic and non-sarcopenic individuals with PF.
Methodology. Patients with heel pain were assessed for PF using the Windlass test. Those who tested positive underwent sarcopenia screening via the SARC-CalF questionnaire, followed by ultrasound imaging to measure medial GMT. Gait speed was measured using the 4-Meter Walk Test (4MWT), and the data were analyzed.
Results. The sarcopenic group exhibited significantly reduced GMT and slower gait speed compared to the non-sarcopenic group (p < 0.001). A negative correlation was found between muscle thickness and gait speed, indicating that decreased GMT adversely affects physical performance.
Conclusion. Gastrocnemius muscle thickness has minimal influence on physical performance in sarcopenic individuals and moderate influence in non-sarcopenic individuals with PF.
Key words
plantar fasciitis, sarcopenia, gastrocnemius muscle thickness, ultrasound, gait speed
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Association between pain type, physical activity and regional function in individuals with chronic low back pain

Siva Harini Y, Balamurugan B, Antony Leo Aseer P, Subbiah K, Angeline R

Siva Harini Y, Balamurugan B, Antony Leo Aseer P, Subbiah K, Angeline R – Association between pain type, physical activity and regional function in individuals with chronic low back pain –  Fizjoterapia Polska 2025; 25(4); 129-133

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56984/8ZGA431YTPJ

Abstract
Background. Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is often associated with disability and decreased quality of life. Understanding the distinction between nociceptive and neuropathic pain is important, as each may differently affect physical activity and function.
Aim. To examine the association between pain type, physical activity, and regional function in individuals with CLBP.
Methodology. A total of 70 participants aged 20–55 years with CLBP were recruited. Pain type was classified using the Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs (LANSS). Physical activity was assessed with the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ), and regional function was evaluated using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). An independent t-test was performed to analyze the data.
Results. The neuropathic pain group showed significantly higher pain intensity (p < 0.01), greater functional disability (p < 0.01), and lower levels of physical activity (p < 0.01) compared to the nociceptive group. A strong negative correlation was observed between physical activity and disability, emphasizing the role of active management in CLBP.
Conclusion. Individuals with neuropathic pain experience more severe disability and engage in less physical activity than those with nociceptive pain. Assessing the pain type is essential in determining appropriate rehabilitation strategies for managing CLBP.
Key words
chronic low back pain, neuropathic pain, nociceptive pain, physical activity, disability
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