Active Release Technique Versus Strain-Counter Strain in Improving Pain and Function in Plantar Fasciitis

Not Applicable

Not yet recruiting

• Conditions: Plantar Fascitis

• Registration Number: NCT07078513
• Lead Sponsor: Riphah International University

Brief Summary

This randomized controlled trial compares the effectiveness of Active Release Technique (ART) and Strain-Counterstrain (SCS) in treating plantar fasciitis. Forty participants will be divided into two groups receiving either ART or SCS over a four-week period. The study aims to identify the more effective manual therapy technique for reducing pain and improving function in patients with plantar fasciitis.

Detailed Description

This randomized controlled trial investigates the comparative effectiveness of Active Release Technique (ART) and Strain-Counterstrain (SCS) in managing plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain and functional limitation. Forty participants will be randomly assigned to two intervention groups, each receiving either ART or SCS over a four-week period, with sessions conducted three times per week. ART involves targeted pressure with active tissue movement to release adhesions, while SCS uses passive positioning to relieve muscle tension. The study will be conducted at Bacha Khan Medical Complex, Swabi. Data will be analyzed using appropriate statistical methods to determine the superior technique. The findings aim to support evidence-based manual therapy approaches in clinical physiotherapy practice.

Study Timeline

• Status Verified: 2025-07
• Study First Submitted: 2025-07-14
• Study First Submitted QC: 2025-07-14
• Last Update Submitted: 2025-07-14
• Study First Posted: 2025-07-22
• Last Update Posted: 2025-07-22
• Study Start: 2025-08-01
• Primary Completion: 2025-12
• Study Completion: 2026-02-01

Recruitment & Eligibility

• Status: NOT_YET_RECRUITING
• Sex: All
• Target Recruitment: 20

Inclusion Criteria

• Patients age 25-45 years diagnosed with plantar fasciitis.
• Chronic plantar fasciitis (symptoms lasting more than 3 months).
• Ability to participate in active movement for ART.

Exclusion Criteria

• Recent lower limb surgery.
• Neurological disorders affecting gait or mobility.
• Acute inflammatory conditions of the foot.

Study & Design

• Study Type: INTERVENTIONAL
• Study Design: PARALLEL

Primary Outcome Measures

Name	Time	Method
NPRS	four weeks	The Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) is a 0 to 10 self-reported scale used to assess pain intensity, where 0 = no pain and 10 = worst possible pain. It is a simple, reliable tool commonly used in clinical trials to measure pain levels before and after interventions.
Foot Function Index (FFI)	Four weeks	Functional mobility will be assessed using the Foot Function Index (FFI), a validated self-reported questionnaire designed to measure the impact of foot pathology on pain, disability, and activity limitation in daily life.
Goniometer	Four weeks	a reliable and widely used clinical tool that measures joint angles in degrees. It helps quantify movement limitations and improvements in specific planes, such as flexion, extension, abduction, and rotation.

Trial Locations

Locations (1)

Riphah international University Malakand Campus; 🇵🇰 Chakdara, KPK, Pakistan