Relationship Between Calf Muscle Tightness, Pain Severity and Functional Disability in Security Guards with Plantar Fasciitis: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common musculoskeletal disorders affecting individuals whose occupations require prolonged standing and walking. Security guards are particularly susceptible because of extended weight-bearing activities during long working hours. Calf muscle tightness is an important biomechanical factor that may increase stress on the plantar fascia, resulting in greater heel pain and functional limitations. However, evidence regarding this association among security guards remains limited. Objective: To determine the association between calf muscle tightness, pain severity, and functional disability among security guards with plantar fasciitis. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 143 security guards with plantar fasciitis using a non-probability convenience sampling technique. Pain severity was assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale, calf muscle tightness was evaluated with the Silfverskiöld test, and functional disability was measured using the Plantar Fasciitis Pain/Disability Scale. Descriptive statistics summarized participant characteristics, while inferential statistics determined the association between calf muscle tightness, pain severity, and functional disability. Results: The mean age of the participants was 34.09±8.65 years. Moderate pain was reported by 57.3% of participants, while 23.1% experienced severe pain. Calf muscle tightness was identified in 60.1% of the participants. Based on Plantar Fasciitis Pain/Disability Scale scores, 55.2% had mild functional disability, 31.5% had moderate disability, and 13.3% had severe disability. A statistically significant positive association was found between calf muscle tightness and both pain severity and functional disability. Conclusion: Calf muscle tightness is significantly associated with increased pain severity and functional disability among security guards with plantar fasciitis. Routine assessment and targeted physiotherapy interventions addressing calf muscle flexibility may reduce symptoms, improve functional outcomes, and enhance occupational performance in this high-risk population.