Clinical Research Directory

Customized Foot Orthoses on Muscle Activity During Standing and Gait in Plantar Heel Pain

The present study will use a randomized controlled trial (RCT) to determine the effectiveness of customized foot orthosis (CFO) for the treatment of patients with PHP. Three treatment groups including the CFO without wedge, the CFO with wedge type 1 (W1), and the CFO with wedge type 2 (W2) will be randomly assigned to each participant by a computer-generated randomization. The opaque-sealed envelopes will be used to allocate the groups of participant.

Effect of Stretching Exercises on Plantar Fascia

The plantar fascia (PF) extends over the calcaneal bone with a thin band corresponding to the calcaneal periosteum, continuing as the paratenon of the Achilles tendon.The triceps surae complex, serving as the main extensor and propulsion system of the foot, involves the Achilles tendon, posterior part of the calcaneus, and Plantar Aponeurosis, all integrated with the fibrous skeleton of the triceps surae. Plantar fasciitis, a prevalent musculoskeletal condition affecting individuals of various ages and activity levels (Hye Chang Rhim), is a primary cause of heel pain in adults. Studies have identified the superior efficacy of stretching protocols targeting the Achilles tendon and/or plantar fascia compared to alternative treatments. However, the limitations of traditional approaches become apparent when considering the intricate biomechanics of the foot and ankle. Conventional calf stretches often prove inadequate for addressing its specific lengthening requirements. While contemporary methods like PF-Specific Stretching integrate plantar fascia and calf stretches, their reliance on individual upper extremity strength introduces potential limitations. Therefore, although the exact effect of stretching on the biomechanical properties of the plantar fascia is not known, it will be aimed to determine whether an instrument aid to be designed will have an effect and which method is more effective. In this way, it is planned to guide clinicians in the rehabilitation of possible pathologies specific to the plantar fascia in clinical practice. Myotonometry is a convenient method to assess the stiffness of the plantar fascia because it is cheap, simple and fast. Previous studies have shown that MyotonPRO can reliably assess the stiffness of the plantar fascia. Although the exact effect of stretching on the biomechanical properties of the plantar fascia is not known, it will be determined whether stretching with an instrument to be designed will have an effect and which method is more effective with or without an instrument.