Unlocking Foot Pain: The Importance of the Windlass Test in Diagnosis and Treatment – Physio360 Chennai.
- PHYSIO 360
- Apr 24
- 3 min read
INTRODUCTION:
When considering foot pain, you might think of straightforward causes—perhaps a misstep, unsuitable footwear, or simply a long day of standing. However, persistent foot pain can sometimes indicate a more serious problem. One condition that frequently goes unnoticed is plantar fasciitis. Healthcare professionals utilise a clinical tool called the Windlass Test to diagnose this common source of heel pain accurately. Physio360 Chennai regularly employs this test to evaluate foot biomechanics and create specific treatment plans.
What Is the Windlass Test?
The Windlass Test is a simple yet powerful clinical examination technique used to identify plantar fasciitis and biomechanical dysfunctions in the foot, particularly issues with the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that supports the arch of your foot.
The test is based on the Windlass Mechanism, which describes how the plantar fascia tightens when the big toe (hallux) is dorsiflexed (pulled upwards). This tightening helps raise the arch of the foot and stabilise it during walking. If this mechanism is impaired or causes pain, it can indicate issues like plantar fasciitis or flat feet.
How Is the Windlass Test Performed?
At Physio360, our expert physiotherapists perform the Windlass Test with precision:
Non-weight-bearing (seated):
The patient is seated with their knee flexed at 90 degrees.
The physiotherapist dorsiflexes the big toe while stabilising the ankle.
A positive test is indicated by the reproduction of heel pain.
Weight-bearing (standing):
The patient stands on a step with the toes on the edge.
The therapist dorsiflexes the big toe while the patient bears weight.
Pain at the medial heel is a positive sign of plantar fasciitis.
Both variations help us identify whether the pain is due to plantar fascia strain and how the foot mechanics are functioning.
Why the Windlass Test Matters at Physio360.
At Physio360 in Chennai, we don't just treat symptoms—we target the root cause. By using the Windlass Test, our physiotherapists can:
Accurately diagnose plantar fasciitis
Assess the integrity of the plantar fascia
Evaluate foot biomechanics
Design custom treatment protocols for long-term relief
The test is non-invasive, quick, and effective—just like the care you receive at our clinic.
Common Conditions Diagnosed with the Windlass Test.
Plantar fasciitis
Flat feet (pes planus)
Collapsed medial arch
Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction
Heel spur syndrome
If you're dealing with chronic heel pain, it’s crucial to get evaluated by a specialist who understands how to identify and treat these underlying conditions.
What Happens After a Positive Windlass Test?
If your Windlass Test is positive, don’t worry—you're in good hands at Physio360. Your personalised treatment plan may include:
Manual therapy to release tension in the plantar fascia
Taping techniques to support the arch
Targeted foot strengthening exercises
Custom orthotics for improved foot alignment
Shockwave therapy or ultrasound therapy for tissue healing
Our goal is to reduce pain, restore function, and get you back on your feet—literally.
Why Choose Physio360 for Foot Pain?
At Physio360 Chennai, we’re known for our accurate diagnoses, hands-on therapy, and customised rehabilitation programs. Our team, led by experts in orthopaedic and sports physiotherapy, understands how foot mechanics impact the entire kinetic chain—from your ankles to your hips and beyond.
Whether you’re an athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or someone dealing with daily foot pain, Physio360 offers the best physiotherapy care near you.
Don’t Let Heel Pain Slow You Down – Book a Consultation Today.
If you’ve been experiencing heel pain, especially with your first steps in the morning or after standing for a long time, the Windlass Test might be the key to understanding the problem.
Book an appointment at Physio360 Centre in Chennai today and let our experienced team assess your condition using evidence-based techniques like the Windlass Test. Relief is just a step away
RESEARCH AND REFERENCE ARTICLE :