Final answer:
The hamstrings would be the least effective muscle to address for Plantar Fasciitis because while they can influence gait, they are not directly connected to the plantar fascia unlike the gastrocnemius and tibialis posterior.
Step-by-step explanation:
To answer which muscle would be the least effective to address for Plantar Fasciitis, we need to consider the muscles' relationships with the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is closely related to the muscles in the posterior compartment of the leg, particularly those associated with the Achilles tendon such as the gastrocnemius, soleus, and plantaris. The tibialis posterior also plays an important role as it helps with plantar flexion and inversion of the foot, which can influence the tension on the plantar fascia.
Out of the options provided:
- Hamstrings - While tight hamstrings can affect the gait and potentially contribute to plantar fasciitis, they are not directly connected to the plantar fascia.
- Gastrocnemius - This is one of the primary calf muscles that connects to the heel via the Achilles tendon. Tightness here can directly impact plantar fasciitis.
- Tibialis anterior - This muscle is primarily responsible for dorsiflexion of the foot, which is the opposite movement of plantar flexion.
- Tibialis posterior - This muscle helps plantar flex and invert the foot, and is therefore more closely related to the plantar fascia.
Considering their functions and locations, the hamstrings would logically be the least effective muscle to address when treating plantar fasciitis, hence option (a) would be the correct choice.