Body Mass Index and its Association with Plantar Fascia and Calf Muscle Tightness in Salespersons of Swat: An Analytical Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Tightness of the plantar fascia and calf muscles causes foot pain, altered gait, and reduced work efficiency. Salespersons, due to prolonged standing, repetitive lifting, and limited breaks, are at high risk. Despite global evidence linking these factors to foot disorders, local data from retail workers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remain limited. Objective: To determine the prevalence of plantar fascia and gastrocnemius tightness among salespersons in Swat and to identify associated demographic, lifestyle, and occupational factors. Methodology: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 377 salespersons selected through convenience sampling from retail stores and shopping centers in Swat. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and clinical assessment. The Windlass test evaluated plantar fascia tightness, while the Silfverskiöld test assessed gastrocnemius tightness. Demographic characteristics, body mass index, physical activity, smoking status, footwear type, and occupational factors were recorded. Associations were analyzed using the Chi-square test with a significance level of p