Myofascial Trigger Point Release Therapy in the Management  of Plantar Heel Pain

Authors

Lilly Shiny Preethi J 1, Reena G 1, Angeline R2*, Venkatesh N 3 , Soundararajan K 4

Ankle plantar flexors, Peroneals, myofascial Trigger points release therapy, Plantar heel Pain

Study design: Interventional Trial

Objectives: To investigate the effect of myofascial trigger point release (MFR) therapy in management of

unilateral plantar heel pain (PHP).

Background: PHP is characterized by pain in the heel region and is restricted to the sole of foot with

tenderness of the heel region. Plantar heel pain is more common foot condition managed by health care

professionals and accounts for 8 % of all injuries. It’s not known whether inclusion of MFR can further

improve the outcomes in patients with PHP.

Methods: 42 patients, 14 men, 28 females (mean ± SD age, 42.76±11.73) with diagnosis of unilateral PHP

where divided into two groups. Patients in control (CRT) group received ultrasound therapy and stretching

therapy. In addition, experimental (ERT) group received MFR. The result was measured using following

outcomes: Dorsiflexion range of motion, Pain Pressure Threshold (PPT), self reported pain Outcome measure

(Numerical Pain Rating Scale-NPRS), Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM). Outcome of interest were

measured at baseline and after 10 day follow-up.

Results: Significant difference was present between groups in all outcomes. In additionally within group

and between group effect size were calculated using Cohen d co-efficient. The effect sizes for the variables

were found to be moderate to large demonstrating the positive effects of MFR.

Conclusion: This study proves that addition of MFR results in superior short-term outcomes compared to

stretching with ultrasound therapy alone in treatment of unilateral PHP.