Effects of Neural Gliding Addes to ESWT and Standard Exercise in Plantar Fasciitis

Investigation of the Effects of Neural Gliding Exercises Added to Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy and Standard Exercise Treatment in Individuals With Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain and may lead to pain, decreased foot function, impaired balance, and reduced quality of life. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy and exercise therapy are commonly used conservative treatment approaches. This randomized controlled study aims to investigate the additional effects of neural gliding exercises when combined with extracorporeal shock wave therapy and standard exercise treatment in individuals with plantar fasciitis.

This randomized controlled trial was conducted to investigate the effects of neural gliding exercises added to extracorporeal shock wave therapy and standard exercise treatment in individuals with plantar fasciitis. A total of 56 participants diagnosed with plantar fasciitis were included in the study and randomly assigned into two groups.

The first group received extracorporeal shock wave therapy combined with a standard exercise program. The second group received extracorporeal shock wave therapy, the same standard exercise program, and additional neural gliding exercises.

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy was applied once weekly for five weeks, with 2000 impulses per session. Participants were instructed to perform their home exercise program twice daily for five weeks.

Outcome measures included pain intensity, foot function, muscle flexibility, balance performance, walking-related functional performance, muscle strength, heel raise performance, and physical activity level. Assessments were performed before and after the intervention period.

The aim of this study was to determine whether adding neural gliding exercises to conventional treatment provides additional clinical benefit in individuals with plantar fasciitis.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosed with plantar fasciitis
• Aged between 18 and 60 years
• Male or female participants
• Willing to participate voluntarily in the study
• Able to comply with treatment and evaluation procedures

Exclusion Criteria:

• Lack of cooperation or inability to follow instructions
• Presence of systemic or metabolic disease
• Malignancy, osteoporosis, fracture, coagulation disorders, active infection, or pacemaker implantation
• Pregnancy
• Receiving any other treatment for plantar fasciitis during the study period
• Having received treatment for plantar fasciitis within the last 6 months