Comparative effectiveness of static stretching and deep kneading massage in the management of plantar fasciitis: a randomized controlled trial
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Abstract
Objective: To compare the efficacy of static stretching and deep kneading massage in patients with plantar fasciitis in enhancing pain relief and functional outcomes.
Methods: This open-label randomized controlled trial was conducted involving 69 patients diagnosed with plantar fasciitis, aged 20–60 years. Participants were randomized into two groups: Control group received conservative treatment with static stretching, and experimental Group received conservative treatment with deep kneading massage. Stretching was administered in 3–5 repetitions of 45 seconds, while massage lasted 5–15 minutes, adjusted for tolerance and severity. Both groups received two sessions per week for two weeks. Outcome measures included the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain and the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v21.
Results: Both interventions showed significant within-group improvements in pain and functional ability (p = .000). The static stretching group showed a mean VAS reduction of 5.80 (SD = 0.96) and FAAM improvement of 39.00 (SD = 8.88). The deep kneading massage group showed a VAS reduction of 4.91 (SD = 1.05) and FAAM improvement of 36.61 (SD = 6.67). Between-group comparisons indicated that deep kneading massage resulted in greater overall improvements.
Conclusion: Both static stretching and deep kneading massage are effective adjuncts in managing plantar fasciitis, with deep kneading massage showing superior pain relief and functional recovery. Further research with larger, more diverse populations is needed to confirm these findings and optimize treatment strategies.
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