impact of gastrocnemius tightness on plantar pressure distribution among individuals with heel pain
Trial Snapshot
- Phase
- Not Applicable
- Status
- Not yet recruiting
- Sponsor
- Enrollment
- 100
- Locations
- 1
- Primary Endpoint
- foot pressure distribution changes in relation to calf muscle tightness
Study Overview
Brief Summary
Gastrocnemius tightness reduces ankle dorsiflexion which alters gait mechanics and shifts plantar pressure away from the heel toward the forefoot This compensation increases pressure under the forefoot and can lead to early heel lift reducing heel contact time As a result the heel absorbs more force during initial contact potentially worsening heel pain especially in conditions like plantar fasciitis The tightness also increases strain on the plantar fascia contributing to chronic pain Addressing gastrocnemius tightness through stretching or therapy can help normalize pressure distribution and alleviate symptoms
Study Design
- Study Type
- Observational
Eligibility Criteria
- Ages
- 18.00 Year(s) to 60.00 Year(s) (—)
- Sex
- All
Inclusion Criteria
- •History of heel pain (specifically plantar fasciitis or any other condition causing heel pain).
- •Acute pain VAS score is greater than 6 BMI ( 24.9-29.9 ) within normal limits Ability to participate in the study by attending assessment sessions.
Exclusion Criteria
- •History of recent foot or ankle surgeries Foot deformities Recent fracture around lower limb Neurological or musculoskeletal disorders that could influence gait or foot function (e.g peripheral neuropathy, stroke) Individuals with significant cardiovascular or systemic diseases.
Outcomes
Primary Outcomes
foot pressure distribution changes in relation to calf muscle tightness
Time Frame: 4 weeks
Secondary Outcomes
No secondary outcomes reported
Investigators
Lokesh R
SRM college of physiotherapy