The current study is a randomized controlled trial comparing the effectiveness of myofascial release therapy used alone versus myofascial release combined with clinical taping for individuals with heel spurs. The trial aims to evaluate improvements in pain, foot function, and overall disability. Interventions will be delivered twice weekly for a specified duration. The primary outcome is pain reduction, while secondary outcomes include improved foot function and reduced disability. The hypothesis is that the combination of myofascial release and taping will result in significantly greater clinical improvements compared to myofascial release alone.

Heel spur is a common musculoskeletal condition often associated with chronic plantar heel pain and functional limitations. This study will evaluate the added value of clinical taping when used in conjunction with Myofascial Release (MFR) therapy. Combining these approaches may offer a complementary effect by addressing both the soft tissue restrictions through manual therapy and providing mechanical support and proprioceptive feedback via taping. The trial uses a randomized controlled design to compare two intervention groups. Participants diagnosed with heel spurs will be randomly assigned to either the experimental group or the comparison group. The experimental group will receive standardized Myofascial Release sessions focusing on the plantar fascia and posterior chain musculature, followed by the application of therapeutic taping. The comparison group will receive the Myofascial Release protocol alone. Both interventions will be provided for a set duration, with sessions occurring twice per week. The study aims to investigate whether the addition of taping results in greater improvements in pain intensity, foot function, and overall disability. Outcome measures, including pain scales and functional assessment tools, will be assessed at baseline and at the conclusion of the treatment period. The trial will be carried out at clinics in Lahore to ensure standardized procedures and consistent delivery across sessions.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 30-40 years
• Both males and females
• Clinically or radiographically confirmed heel spur
• Pain intensity ≥ 3 on Visual Analog Scale
• Symptom duration ≥ 4 weeks
• Able to attend treatment sessions 3 times per week
• Able to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Previous foot or heel surgery
• Current physiotherapy treatment for heel pain
• Neurological disorders (e.g., neuropathy, radiculopathy)
• Systemic inflammatory diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, gout)
• Severe musculoskeletal deformities of the foot
• Open wounds, skin infection, or allergy to tape
• Corticosteroid injection in the last 3 months
• Pregnancy
• Any medical condition preventing safe participation

Only IPD used in the results publication will be shared.

It will be available after the completion of the study.

Through the corresponding author.

This study uses single masking in which the outcome assessor is blinded to group allocation. Participants will be assigned to either the Myofascial Release with taping group or the Myofascial Release only group by an independent researcher who is not involved in assessment. The assessor responsible for recording baseline and post intervention outcomes (VAS and FFI scores) will not be informed of the participants' intervention group. To maintain blinding, participants will be instructed not to disclose their group assignment during assessments.