Find HS Code and trade information for plantar fasciitis

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot from the heel to the toes. It is a common cause of heel pain.

Material & Anatomy

The plantar fascia is a dense, fibrous connective tissue composed primarily of collagen fibers. It originates at the calcaneal tubercle (heel bone) and extends to the toes, supporting the arch of the foot. Its structure allows it to withstand significant stress during weight-bearing activities.

Purpose & Function

The plantar fascia acts as a shock absorber, supports the arch of the foot, and aids in locomotion. It contributes to maintaining the foot's natural biomechanics, distributing weight evenly across the foot during walking, running, and jumping.

Causes & Symptoms

Plantar fasciitis typically develops gradually due to repetitive strain and overuse. Common contributing factors include:

• Overpronation: Excessive inward rolling of the foot during gait.
• High or Low Arches: Both contribute to increased stress on the fascia.
• Tight Calf Muscles: Limits ankle flexibility and increases strain.
• Obesity: Increased weight places greater stress on the fascia.
• Inadequate Footwear: Lack of arch support or cushioning.
• Prolonged Standing/Walking: Repeated stress on the fascia.

Symptoms include:

• Heel Pain: Most prominent in the morning or after periods of rest.
• Pain Worsened by Activity: Pain increases with walking or standing.
• Pain After Exercise: Pain may be more noticeable after activity, not during.
• Tenderness to the Touch: Pain when pressing on the heel.
• Stiffness: Stiffness in the heel and arch of the foot.

Usage Scenarios & Affected Populations

Plantar fasciitis is common among:

• Runners: High-impact activity places significant stress on the fascia.
• Walkers: Prolonged walking can contribute to overuse.
• People who stand for long periods: Jobs requiring extended standing.
• Individuals with obesity: Increased weight adds stress.
• Those with flat feet or high arches: Altered biomechanics.
• Older adults: Loss of arch support and tissue flexibility.

Common Types & Related Conditions

While plantar fasciitis is not categorized into strict 'types', variations in presentation exist:

• Classic Plantar Fasciitis: Pain localized to the heel and arch.
• Medial Plantar Fasciitis: Pain concentrated on the inner arch.
• Posterior Heel Pain: Pain felt deeper in the heel, potentially involving the Achilles tendon.

Related conditions that can mimic plantar fasciitis include:

• Achilles Tendinitis: Inflammation of the Achilles tendon.
• Stress Fracture: A small crack in the heel bone.
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of a nerve in the foot.
• Heel Spur: A bony growth on the heel bone (often co-occurs with plantar fasciitis but isn't the primary cause of pain).

Treatment & Prevention

Treatment options include:

• Rest: Reduce activity to allow the fascia to heal.
• Ice: Apply ice to reduce inflammation.
• Stretching: Calf and plantar fascia stretches.
• Supportive Footwear: Arch supports and cushioned shoes.
• Orthotics: Custom or over-the-counter arch supports.
• Night Splints: To maintain dorsiflexion during sleep.
• Physical Therapy: Strengthening and stretching exercises.
• Injections: Corticosteroid injections (short-term relief).
• Surgery: Rarely needed, reserved for severe cases.

Prevention strategies include:

• Proper Footwear: Supportive shoes with good arch support.
• Stretching: Regular stretching of calf and plantar fascia.
• Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight.
• Gradual Increase in Activity: Avoid sudden increases in activity levels.
• Avoid Overpronation: Consider orthotics if overpronation is present.

Plantar fasciitis refers to inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot. Appliances addressing this condition would fall under orthopedic appliances designed to support or correct foot function.

The following HS codes are relevant based on the provided information:

• 9021100050: Orthopedic or fracture appliances, and parts and accessories thereof; Bone plates, screws and nails, and other internal fixation devices or appliances. This code covers orthopedic appliances, including those used for foot support, and internal fixation devices which could be relevant if surgical intervention is required.
  • 90: Chapter 90 – Instruments and appliances which are used in surgery, dentistry, medical, veterinary or zootechnical purposes; parts and accessories thereof.
  • 21: Heading 21 – Instruments and appliances which are used in surgery, dentistry, medical, veterinary or zootechnical purposes; parts and accessories thereof.
  • 100050: Subheading 100050 – Orthopedic or fracture appliances, and parts and accessories thereof; Bone plates, screws and nails, and other internal fixation devices or appliances.
• 9021100090: Orthopedic or fracture appliances, and parts and accessories thereof; Other. This code covers orthopedic appliances not specifically classified elsewhere, including supports and braces for the foot.
  • 90: Chapter 90 – Instruments and appliances which are used in surgery, dentistry, medical, veterinary or zootechnical purposes; parts and accessories thereof.
  • 21: Heading 21 – Instruments and appliances which are used in surgery, dentistry, medical, veterinary or zootechnical purposes; parts and accessories thereof.
  • 100090: Subheading 100090 – Orthopedic or fracture appliances, and parts and accessories thereof; Other.

Tax Information:

Both HS codes 9021100050 and 9021100090 currently have a base tariff of 0.0% and an additional tariff of 0.0%. However, a 30% additional tariff will be applied after April 2, 2025, resulting in a total tariff of 30.0%.