Comparasion of the Immediate Effect of Myofascial Relaxation Technique and Kinesiology Taping

Comparasion of the Immediate Effect of Myofascial Relaxation Technique and Kinesiology Taping on Biomechanical and Viscoelastic Properties of Plantar Fascia and Plantar Pressure Distribution in Diabetes Patients

As a result of glycation of collagen fibers in diabetes mellitus, an increase in thickness and stiffness is observed in the plantar fascia, which is a connective tissue. These changes in the plantar fascia affect the windlass mechanism of the foot, normal range of motion and foot plantar pressure distribution. These biomechanical effects may cause the development of diabetic foot ulcers in the later stages of the disease. We hypothesis that myofascial release technique and kinesiology taping methods have an effect on plantar fascia stiffness and plantar pressure distribution in diabetic patients. The aim of this study is to investigate the immediate effects of the two methods on the stiffness of the plantar fascia and foot sole pressure distribution in diabetic patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Those with diabetic foot ulcer development risk groups 1 and 2 according to the International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF)
• Those who have diabetes for at least 5 years
• Ambulation independently without using an assistive device

Exclusion Criteria:

• Those with foot posture deformity
• Having another disease that will affect connective tissue properties
• Presence of orthopedic or neurological disorders that will affect plantar load distribution
• History of surgery and fractures from the ankle-foot in the last 6 months