The Windlass Test is commonly used to diagnose which condition?

• A. Plantar fasciitis.
• B. Gout.
• C. Achilles tendinopathy.
• D. Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction.

Answer: (A)

The Windlass test targets the plantar fascia. When the big toe is dorsiflexed, the plantar fascia is tightened and the arch is elevated; if this maneuver reproduces focal pain at the medial heel, it indicates plantar fascia involvement. This makes it a useful diagnostic clue for plantar fasciitis, which presents with heel pain linked to strain of the plantar fascia, especially with first steps in the morning. Other conditions like gout affect joints (often the big toe MTP) and are diagnosed by clinical pattern and, if needed, crystal analysis, not by this test. Achilles tendinopathy involves the Achilles tendon and is better tested with maneuvers that provoke the tendon, such as resisted plantarflexion or heel raises. Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction affects the arch and inverts the foot, with tests focusing on arch support and toe signs rather than plantar fascia stretch. So the Windlass test most directly supports plantar fasciitis.