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Plantar fasciitis — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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EasyAmbulatory Medicine / Primary CarePlantar fasciitisUSMLE Step 3

A 45-year-old runner has heel pain that is most severe with the first steps in the morning and improves after walking. There is focal tenderness at the medial calcaneal tubercle. Ankle range of motion is normal and there is no swelling or erythema. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

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Correct answer: E — Plantar fasciitis

Classic plantar fasciitis causes first-step heel pain with tenderness at the plantar fascia insertion.

Reference: AAFP musculoskeletal care guidance: https://www.aafp.org/