Effects of Windlass and Calcaneal Taping on Pain, Flexibility, and Lower Limb Function in Football Players with Plantar Fasciitis

What this Trial Is About

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition affecting the dense tissue along the bottom of the foot, causing heel pain. Football players are especially at risk due to repetitive high-impact activities like sprinting, jumping, and changing direction. This research evaluates the effects of two taping methods, windlass taping and calcaneal taping, on pain, foot flexibility, and lower limb function in football players. The study is a randomized clinical trial conducted over 10 months at the Pakistan Sports Board and The Raider's football club. Participants are divided into two groups: one receives calcaneal taping, which supports the heel and ankle by applying tape from the lateral to medial malleolus with anchors at the heel; the other group receives windlass taping, which supports the foot arch by applying tape around the foot with tension activated by extending the big toe. Both taping techniques are applied to assess their impact on foot function. Participants will be assessed using tools like the Numeric Pain Rating Scale, Hubscher maneuver, goniometer, and Lower Extremity Functional Scale to measure pain intensity, foot flexibility, joint motion, and limb function after one week. The study aims to provide insights into how these taping methods influence pain relief and foot performance in football players with plantar fasciitis.

Effects of Windlass Versus Calcaneal Taping in Football Player With Plantar Fasciitis.