The data revealed a 32 percent lower risk in patients receiving pravastatin than in those receiving placebo. The LDL numbers were not statistically significant. The investigators found that after three months of therapy the group receiving the supplemental B vitamins had lower serum levels of homocysteine and significantly lower plasma thrombomodulin levels than the group who did not receive the B vitamins. The investigators noted that neither group of subjects showed changes in their fibrinolytic systems. Initial treatment for the rupture includes brief immobilization of the injured foot using hard casts or a boot-like brace.
Later treatment involves cross-training, stretching and the use of orthotics.
A common factor that would help predict which patients were most likely to have long-term symptoms from the rupture was not identified. Long-term side effects of plantar fascia rupture can include strain and discomfort in the arch, stress fracture, swelling, toe deformities and an awkward change in gait or posture to reduce pain. The investigators believe that patients need to be aware of the painful side effects that may be caused by this type of rupture. A common ankle fracture seen in association with snowboarding is often mistaken for a simple sprain and may cause significant disability if left untreated, according to results of a prospective study of 3,213 injuries sustained by snowboarders at 10 ski resorts in Colorado from 1988 to 1995. The remainder of the injuries were bruises and other soft tissue contusions.