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Barefoot Walking VS Standardised Conservative Care for Plantar Fasciopathy
Sponsor: Elisabetta Brigo
Summary
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if a barefoot walking programme can treat plantar fasciopathy (heel pain) in adults aged 18-70. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Does a barefoot walking programme reduce heel pain compared to a standardised stretching and strengthening programme? * Does a barefoot walking programme improve foot function and quality of life in adults with plantar fasciopathy? Researchers will compare a barefoot walking programme to a standardised stretching and strengthening programme to see if barefoot walking is an effective conservative management approach for plantar fasciopathy. Participants will: * Be randomly assigned to either a barefoot walking programme or a stretching and strengthening programme * Complete a 12-week home-based exercise programme * Complete short weekly questionnaires throughout the 12 weeks * Complete 3 follow-up surveys over 6 months after the intervention ends * Receive education on load management and plantar fasciopathy
Official title: Clinical and Economic Effectiveness of Barefoot Walking Compared to Standardised Conservative Care for the Treatment of Plantar Fasciopathy: a Pragmatic Randomised Controlled Trial
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 70 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
74
Start Date
2026-05-07
Completion Date
2027-10-31
Last Updated
2026-05-22
Healthy Volunteers
No
Interventions
Barefoot Walking Programme
A structured 12-week progressive home-based barefoot walking programme on grass for adults with plantar fasciopathy. Participants gradually increase the duration and frequency of barefoot walking over the 12-week period. Education on plantar fasciopathy and load management principles is provided. Adherence and symptom response are monitored via weekly questionnaires.
Standardised Conservative Care
A structured 12-week standardised home-based stretching and strengthening programme for adults with plantar fasciopathy. The programme includes plantar fascia and calf stretching alongside progressive foot and lower limb strengthening exercises. Education on plantar fasciopathy and load management principles is provided. Adherence and symptom response are monitored via weekly questionnaires
Locations (1)
South East Technological University
Carlow, Carlow County, Ireland