Evaluating tissue flossing and myofascial release for flat feet

Comparison of Tissue Flossing and Myofascial Release on Calf Muscles in Patients With Pes Planus

NA · Riphah International University · NCT06707844

This study is testing if two treatments, tissue flossing and myofascial release, can help young adults with flat feet improve their balance, foot arch, and movement.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment44 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 25 Years
SexAll
SponsorRiphah International University (other)
Locations1 site (Rawalpindi, Punjab)
Trial IDNCT06707844 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness of two therapeutic interventions, tissue flossing and myofascial release, in improving balance, arch height, and range of motion in patients with flexible flatfoot. Conducted at the Margalla Rehabilitation Center, the study will involve 44 participants aged 18-25 who have flexible pes planus and limited ankle dorsiflexion. Participants will be divided into two groups, with one receiving tissue flossing and the other undergoing myofascial release over a six-month period. The goal is to compare the outcomes of these interventions in managing symptoms associated with flat feet.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18-25 with flexible flat feet and limited ankle dorsiflexion.

Not a fit: Patients with rigid flatfoot or those with recent ankle or calf injuries may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide effective non-surgical treatment options for individuals suffering from flat feet, improving their mobility and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise for both tissue flossing and myofascial release in treating similar conditions, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18-25 years.
* Having normal BMI ranging from 18.5 to 24.9 kg/m²
* Having flexible flat feet, defined as a navicular drop test value of ≥10 mm
* Must have pain in the calf muscles or ankle joint, with a NPRS score of ≥3
* Must have limited ankle dorsiflexion ROM, defined as ≤10° of dorsiflexion

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with rigid flatfoot
* History of ankle or calf muscle injury or surgery within the last 6 months
* Individuals with latex allergy
* Individuals having any lumbo-pelvic, hip, knee and ankle pathologies such as fractures, dislocations, degenerative diseases etc.
* Any neurological disease
* Pregnant females
* Individuals with BMI greater than or equal to 25.0 kg/m²
* Ongoing use of medications such as muscle relaxants or anti-inflammatory drugs
* Involved in athletic training

Where this trial is running

Rawalpindi, 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: Pes Planus, tissue flossing, Flatfeet, myofascial release, balance, arch height, range of motion

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.