Comparing Knee Strengthening and Proprioception Exercises Added to Stretching for Chronic Plantar Fasciitis Pain and Function

What this Trial Is About

Chronic plantar fasciitis is a frequent cause of heel pain, marked by sharp discomfort during the first steps after rest and tenderness in the foot. This condition affects about 10% of people and is linked to factors like limited ankle movement, obesity, and unsuitable footwear. Researchers are studying whether adding knee strengthening or proprioception exercises to a standard stretching treatment can better reduce pain and disability and improve foot, ankle, and knee function in affected patients. The trial involves three groups one performing only plantar fascia and calf stretching twice daily for six weeks, another adding supervised proprioception exercises three times weekly, and a third adding supervised knee strengthening exercises three times weekly, both over six weeks. Proprioception exercises include balance tasks with increasing difficulty, and all interventions are supervised by physiotherapists. Participants will be assessed at the start, after six weeks of intervention, and again at 12 weeks for pain levels, foot function, pressure pain thresholds, and foot and ankle outcomes. Researchers will also measure biomechanical features, joint range of motion, muscle strength, and balance. These evaluations help determine the effects of added exercises on pain relief and functional improvement over the study period.

Outcomes of the Proprioception and Strengthening Exercise Program in Chronic Plantar Fasciitis