Transverse Friction Massage vs Instrument-Assisted Soft-Tissue Mobilization for Plantar Fasciitis

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

In this single-blinded randomized trial, adults with plantar fasciitis are assigned to receive either transverse friction massage or instrument-assisted soft-tissue mobilization to compare their effects on heel pain and function. The study plans to enroll 34 participants at Foundation University College of Physical Therapy in Islamabad, using sealed envelopes to conceal allocation. Treatments are focused on manual therapy techniques aimed at improving tissue mobility and reducing pain, with outcomes assessed over a defined period. Eligibility requires persistent heel pain for more than three months and meeting specific clinical criteria, while exclusions include prior foot surgery and certain systemic or foot conditions.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Age (adults 19 - 44 years).
* Male and female both are included.
* Pain in plantar heel lasting more than 3 months.
* Clinically diagnosed plantar fasciitis patients in compliance with the American physical therapy association's (APTA) Orthopedic Section clinical practice guidelines.
* Positive windlass test;
* Negative tarsal tunnel tests;
* Limited active and passive talocrural joint dorsiflexion range of motion;
* Plantar medial heel pain; most noticeable with initial steps after a period of inactivity but also worse after prolonged weight bearing.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Previous surgical intervention for plantar fasciitis.
* Congenital abnormalities of foot.
* Lower extremities affected by systemic disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes or peripheral neuropathy.
* The presence of additional foot disorders, such as stress fractures, Achilles tendinopathy, or nerve entrapment syndromes.
* Any contraindications to Instrument-Assisted Soft-Tissue Mobilization such as open wounds, skin infections, acute inflammation or intolerance to mechanical pressure.
* Not willing or not capable of adhering to the study procedure and completing follow- up examinations.
* Pregnant women, mental illness, immune suppressed patients, patients with peripheral vascular disease, thrombocytopenia patients, anti-coagulant therapy patients and post mastectomy.

Where it's running

• Foundation University College of Physical Therapy
  Islamabad, Punjab Province, Pakistan Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Adeeba Afzal, DPT
• Email: adeebaafzal10888@gmail.com
• Phone: +923341822252

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.