Medial Longitudinal Arch Support and Plantar Fascia Stretch Taping in Plantar Fasciitis

Comparison of Medial Longitudinal Arch Support and Plantar Fascia Stretch Taping Techniques in Plantar Fasciitis

Rationale of this research is to evaluate the outcome of two widely used but biomechanically distinct techniques of Taping done for plantar fascia i.e. Fascia taping which supports the fascia, and Low dye taping which realigns with medial longitudinal arch. The significance of this study is to identify which taping technique will improve pain, ankle ROM, foot function and arch flexibility which will help clinicians in identifying the most suitable and effective taping method for the patients

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of chronic heel pain, leading to reduced mobility, altered gait, and impaired quality of life. Despite its high prevalence, most conventional treatments focus primarily on calf stretching, orthotic devices, or electrotherapy. Taping is a cost effective and powerful treatment technique, this study is being done to identify which taping technique will improve pain, ankle ROM, foot function and arch flexibility in patients with acute and subacute plantar fasciitis. It is a randomized control trial which will be conducted on 36 patient calculated using G* Power software. Participants were randomly assigned to intervention or control group after a baseline assessment using lottery ticket and opaque envelop. All participants in both groups were evaluated on 6 occasions baseline, post-intervention, post every treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

Participants' full filling the criteria given below will be recruited in this study. Diagnosis based on clinical guidelines linked to the International Classification of Function, Disability and Health of the Orthopaedic Section of the American Physiotherapy Association.

• Age 25-65 years
• Positive Windlass test
• Tenderness at medial calcaneal tubercle
• Limited ankle dorsiflexion <16
• Acute or subacute stage unilateral plantar fasciitis

Exclusion Criteria:

Individuals with one of the following disorder will be excluded from this study

• Fracture of ankle or foot
• Diabetes
• Neuropathy
• Cognitive impairments/ Psychological disorder
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Open wound.