Comparing two techniques for improving calf muscle flexibility in women who wear high heels

Comparison of Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization Versus Dynamic Oscillatory Stretch Technique in Females Wearing High Heels

NA · Riphah International University · NCT06086600

This study is testing whether two different techniques can help improve calf muscle flexibility in women who often wear high heels.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment54 (estimated)
Ages20 Years to 40 Years
SexFemale
SponsorRiphah International University (other)
Locations1 site (Islamabad, Punjab)
Trial IDNCT06086600 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) and Dynamic Oscillatory Stretch Technique (DOST) on the flexibility of the gastrocnemius muscle in women who frequently wear high heels. It will involve a randomized controlled trial with 54 participants, divided into two groups, each receiving one of the interventions. The study will assess the range of motion in the ankle joint and the mechanical properties of the Achilles tendon before and after the treatment sessions. This research is particularly significant as it addresses a gap in knowledge regarding high heel syndrome in Pakistan.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are females aged 20-40 who have been wearing high heels regularly for at least one year and experience reduced ankle dorsiflexion and pain.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of deep vein thrombosis, lower limb injuries, or significant medical conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide effective treatment options for women suffering from high heel syndrome, improving their mobility and reducing discomfort.

How similar studies have performed: While this specific comparison has not been previously conducted in Pakistan, similar studies in other regions have shown positive outcomes with both techniques for improving muscle flexibility.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 20-40 years
* Duration of wearing heels: minimum 1 year
* Wearing heels for minimum 3 times a week and 5 hours a day.
* Heel height: 2" and above
* Ankle Dorsiflexion ROM: decreased dorsiflexion (about 17 degrees)
* Pain scale showing more than 3.

Exclusion Criteria:

* DVT
* Musculoskeletal injury or surgery of lower limb.
* Acute Cardio-Respiratory or Neurological condition.
* Medical or surgical co-morbidities

Where this trial is running

Islamabad, Punjab

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Behavior, Social, instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization, dynamic oscillatory stretch technique, high heel users

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.