Mirpur Mathelo

Researchers are investigating the combined effects of high load strength training and tissue-specific plantar fascia stretching exercises in male athletes diagnosed with plantar fasciitis. This randomized control trial addresses a gap in existing research by comparing these treatment approaches in athletes aged 20 to 35 years who experience heel pain and functional disability related to plantar fasciitis. The study is conducted over 10 months at sports clubs of MOTH Mirpur AJK using convenient sampling methods. Participants are divided into two groups. Group A receives high load strength training along with routine physiotherapy, while Group B receives high load strength training combined with tissue-specific plantar fascia stretching exercises plus routine physiotherapy. Training involves sessions on alternative days with specific repetitions and rest intervals: 12 RM with 3 sets initially, progressing to 10 RM with 4 sets over 12 weeks. The stretching exercises are performed 10 times for 10 seconds each. Throughout the study, researchers measure pain, range of motion, and functional disability using tools such as the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Functional Foot Index (FFI), and goniometry before the intervention, immediately after the first session, at 6 weeks (18 sessions), and at 12 weeks (36 sessions). Ultrasound is used to measure plantar fascia thickness. Data are analyzed statistically with SPSS to assess treatment outcomes and safety over the 12-week period.