Everson fascial cord tension test

Overview

One of the aims of good shoe/orthotic fitting should be to facilitate the correct flexing of the big toe relative to the big toe joint. However, in doing this, we have to make sure that the band of tissue running along the arch of the foot (the Fascial Cord) does not get irritated by the shoe or orthotic insert.

The aim of this test is to determine how much force is required to engage the Fascial Cord. This information will be used to ensure the chosen orthotic insert (premade or custom-made) does not cause friction or irritation in the arch of the foot.

To perform the test

This test is done with the customer in a non-weight bearing position, either sitting with the foot suspended or lying down.

1. Place index and middle finger on top of the big toe joint to stabilise it. Place the thumb under the tip of the big toe.
2. Start bending the big toe upwards (to about 45°) and assess the force required for the fascial cord to become obvious. You can use your other hand to feel the fascial cord pop out.
3. Repeat with the other foot.
4. Having assessed the force required for the fascial band to become obvious, select Low, Medium or High (for each foot) in the relevant field on the Move Without Pain website.