Plantar Fasciitis of Both FeetNCT07426783
Dry Needling and Fascial Manipulation Techniques in Plantar Fasciitis.
A study testing Fascial Manipulation + Conventional PT and Dry Needling + Conventional PT in people with Plantar Fasciitis of Both Feet, run by Riphah International University at 1 site in Pakistan.
Trial summary
The goal of this randomized controlled clinical trial is to evaluate whether Fascial Manipulation (FM) or Dry Needling (DN) can effectively reduce pain, improve functional mobility, and enhance range of motion (ROM) in individuals with chronic Plantar Fasciitis (PF) aged 25-45 years The main questions it aims to… Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 25 to 45 years, women only
- Conditions the study is for
- Plantar Fasciitis of Both Feet
- What is being tested?
- Fascial Manipulation + Conventional PT and Dry Needling + Conventional PT
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 36 participants
- Where
- 1 sitePakistan
- Study dates
- 1 Oct 2025to 2 Mar 2026
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 25 to 45 years
- Women only
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- Participants falling in this category would be recruited into the study.
- Females aged 25-45 years with chronic heel pain with symptoms persisting for more than one month.
- Having a heel pain on the first step during the last week with the rate of at least 40 mm on visual analogue scale.
- Presence of morning heel pain, tenderness at the medial calcaneal tubercle, and heel spur, or pain exacerbated by prolonged standing, walking, or dorsiflexion
- Patients accepting to discontinue analgesics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications and oral/topical paracetamol during the study period.
- Patients diagnosed with plantar fasciitis using Plantar fasciitis questionnaire.
Who cannot join
- Participants fall in this category would be excluded of the study.
- History of foot or ankle fractures, surgeries, or inflammatory conditions like RA.
- Presence of any neurological disorders affecting gait.
- Participants with diagnosed tendinopathies, including Achilles tendinopathy, posterior tibial tendinopathy, etc. will be excluded from the study to ensure the specificity of plantar fasciitis.
- Participants with metabolic disorders (e.g., osteomalacia, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes) affecting bone and soft tissue integrity will be excluded to prevent confounding effects on pain, healing, and treatment outcomes
- Active infections, open wounds, or skin conditions at the treatment site.
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- Diabetic neuropathy or vascular insufficiencies that may affect healing and sensations.
- Patients with bleeding disorders like hemophilia and those on anti-coagulant therapy.
- Patients with hypersensitivity reactions to needles or specific metals used in needles.
- Patients with needle phobia.
- Patients with history of epilepsy or seizures.
- Use of corticosteroid injections, shockwave therapy, or other invasive treatments for PF in the last 3 months.
- Participation in another clinical trial or conflicting therapy during the study period
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
About this study
Official title: Comparative Effects of Fascial Manipulation and Dry Needling Technique in Management of Chronic Plantar Fasciitis
The goal of this randomized controlled clinical trial is to evaluate whether Fascial Manipulation (FM) or Dry Needling (DN) can effectively reduce pain, improve functional mobility, and enhance range of motion (ROM) in individuals with chronic Plantar Fasciitis (PF) aged 25-45 years
The main questions it aims to answer are:
Read more
- Does Fascial Manipulation significantly reduce pain intensity in patients with chronic Plantar Fasciitis?
- Does Dry Needling provide comparable or superior improvements in functional mobility and ankle-foot ROM compared to Fascial Manipulation?
Researchers will compare the Fascial Manipulation group to the Dry Needling group to determine which intervention is more effective in improving pain and functional outcomes in chronic PF.
Participants will:
Receive either Fascial Manipulation or Dry Needling interventions according to their assigned group.
Attend treatment sessions twice a week for six weeks.
Undergo baseline, mid, and post-intervention assessments of pain (VAS-100scale), functional mobility (FFI), diagnostic (PFPS, Windlass, and ankle-foot range of motion (goniometric measurements).
Read the detailed description
Plantar fasciitis (PF) is one of the most common causes of heel pain, characterized by inflammation and micro tears in the plantar fascia, a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the sole from the heel to the toes. This condition typically results from repetitive stress, excessive foot loading, or biomechanical imbalances, leading to stabbing pain, particularly during the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of inactivity. PF is often classified as an overuse injury and is commonly associated with factors such as prolonged standing, high-impact activities, obesity, and improper footwear. Despite being self-limiting in some cases, chronic PF can significantly impact mobility and quality of life, making effective management strategies essential for long-term relief.
Plantar fasciitis (PF) is a leading cause of chronic heel pain, affecting approximately 10% of the population at some point in their lives. It is particularly prevalent among individuals aged 30 to 60 years. It is more commonly observed in women than men, with a female-to-male ratio of nearly 2:1. Professions requiring prolonged standing or repetitive weight-bearing activities, such as nurses, teachers, factory workers, and military personnel, are at higher risk. Additionally, PF is a common overuse injury among athletes, especially runners, whose prevalence ranges from 4% to 22%, depending on the intensity of training and biomechanical factors. Despite the widespread occurrence of PF, managing this condition remains challenging, especially in chronic cases where pain persists for more than six months. Numerous conventional treatments are currently used to treat plantar fasciitis including calf stretching, foot taping, manual therapy (joint mobilization and manipulation; mobilization of soft tissue near sites of nerve entrapment and passive neural mobilization techniques), foot orthosis, oral and injectable anti-inflammatories, and night splints, Surgery is recommended as a last option and is usually done after failure of at least six months of conservative therapy. However, these modalities may be associated with serious side effects and challenges toward an alternative adjunctive treatment are thus demanded. Dry needling are increasingly being used to treat heel pain, as many other musculoskeletal pain.
Fascial manipulation (FM), developed by Luigi Stecco, is a manual therapy technique that focuses on addressing restrictions in the deep fascia to restore normal movement and reduce pain. Fascia, a continuous connective tissue network surrounding muscles and organs, plays a crucial role in movement coordination and force transmission. When fascial densifications or adhesions occur, they can alter biomechanical function and contribute to pain and dysfunction. FM aims to release these fascial restrictions through precise and sustained pressure on specific fascial points, leading to improved proprioception, restored elasticity, and enhanced neuromuscular control. Research has shown that FM can provide significant pain relief and functional improvement in chronic musculoskeletal conditions, making it a promising intervention for PF.
On the other hand, dry needling (DN) is a minimally invasive technique that involves inserting fine monofilament needles into myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) to relieve muscle tension and pain. Unlike acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine, DN is rooted in Western medical principles and specifically targets neuromuscular dysfunction. The insertion of needles into hyperirritable muscle spots induces localized twitch responses, which help disrupt the cycle of pain and muscular tightness. Additionally, DN stimulates endorphin release, enhances local blood circulation, and promotes tissue healing. Studies suggest that DN is effective in reducing pain intensity and improving mobility in patients with chronic PF, particularly when combined with other therapeutic interventions such as stretching and manual therapy.
The aim of this study is to compare the effectiveness of Fascial Manipulation (FM) and Dry Needling (DN) combined with conventional therapy in the management of chronic Plantar Fasciitis (PF). By evaluating pain relief, functional improvement, and long-term treatment outcomes, this research seeks to determine which technique offers superior therapeutic benefits and whether a combined approach enhances patient recovery. Additionally, the study aims to address the existing research gap by providing evidence-based insights into the comparative efficacy of these two interventions
- Conditions
- Plantar Fasciitis of Both Feet
- Being tested
- Fascial Manipulation + Conventional PT, Dry Needling + Conventional PT
- Keywords
- Fascial Manipulation, Dry Needling, Plantar Fasciitis
- Medical subject headings
- Fasciitis, Plantar
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Fascial Manipulation + Conventional PTOther
Fascial Manipulation (FM) targets myofascial dysfunction by applying deep manual pressure to densified fascial layers involved in chronic pain and mobility restrictions. The following techniques will be used:
- Fascial Release Techniques: This technique will target Plantar fascia, gastrocnemius, soleus, Achilles tendon, and intrinsic foot muscles
- Myofascial Stretching: Passive ankle dorsiflexion with toe extension to stretch the plantar fascia and posterior chain Conventional Exercises: Hot pack before fascial manipulation for 10 mins, stretching Exercises (Plantar Fascia Stretch, gastrocnemius stretch, soleus Stretch, towel stretch) and strengthening Exercises (Toe curls, resisted ankle dorsiflexion with resistance band, heel raises).
Total duration is 2 sessions per week for 6 consecutive weeks
Dry Needling + Conventional PTOther
Dry Needling: Dry needling (DN) is an effective technique for releasing myofascial trigger points, reducing pain and improving muscle function. The following protocol will be used:
The targeted areas are: (plantar fascia, gastrocnemius (medial \& lateral heads), soleus, tibialis posterior) Sterile monofilament needles (0.30 mm x 30 mm) will be used. The needle will be inserted perpendicularly into trigger points by Piston (rapid in and out technique).
Duration will be done twice a week for 6 weeks. Conventional Exercises: Ice therapy after dry needling to overcome soreness, stretching Exercises (Plantar Fascia Stretch, gastrocnemius stretch, soleus Stretch, towel stretch) and strengthening Exercises (Toe curls, resisted ankle dorsiflexion with resistance band, heel raises).
Total duration is 2 sessions per week for 6 consecutive weeks.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Fascial Manipulation + conventional PT | Experimental | FMT: Fascial Manipulation (FM) targets myofascial dysfunction by applying deep manual pressure to densified fascial layers involved in chronic pain and mobility restrictions. The following techniques will be used:
* Fascial Release Techniques: This technique will target Plantar fascia, gastrocnemius, soleus, Achilles tendon, and intrinsic foot muscles
* Myofascial Stretching: Passive ankle dorsiflexion with toe extension to stretch the plantar fascia and posterior chain Conventional Exercises: Hot pack before fascial manipulation for 10 mins, stretching Exercises (Plantar Fascia Stretch, gastrocnemius stretch, soleus Stretch, towel stretch) and strengthening Exercises (Toe curls, resisted ankle dorsiflexion with resistance band, heel raises).
Total duration is 2 sessions per week for 6 consecutive weeks. Receives: Other: Fascial Manipulation + Conventional PT |
| Dry needling + Conventional PT | Experimental | Dry Needling: Dry needling (DN) is an effective technique for releasing myofascial trigger points, reducing pain and improving muscle function. The following protocol will be used:
The targeted areas are: (plantar fascia, gastrocnemius (medial \& lateral heads), soleus, tibialis posterior) Sterile monofilament needles (0.30 mm x 30 mm) will be used. The needle will be inserted perpendicularly into trigger points by Piston (rapid in and out technique).
Duration will be done twice a week for 6 weeks. Conventional Exercises: Ice therapy after dry needling to overcome soreness, stretching Exercises (Plantar Fascia Stretch, gastrocnemius stretch, soleus Stretch, towel stretch) and strengthening Exercises (Toe curls, resisted ankle dorsiflexion with resistance band, heel raises).
Total duration is 2 sessions per week for 6 consecutive weeks Receives: Other: Dry Needling + Conventional PT |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Foot Function Index (FFI):
It is a self-reported questionnaire designed to assess pain, disability, and activity limitation in individuals with foot disorders. It consists of 23 items divided into three subscales: pain, disability, and activity restriction
Measured: 3 weeks
Visual Analog Scale (VAS 100):
To assess pain intensity, a 100 mm horizontal Visual Analog Scale (VAS) will be employed, where patients mark their pain level along a continuum ranging from 0 mm (no pain) to 100 mm (worst possible pain).
Patient will be asked to verbally report the pain score.
Measured: 3 weeks
Plantar Fasciitis Pain/Disability Scale (PFPS)
The Plantar Fasciitis Pain/Disability Scale (PFPS) is a specialized tool designed to assess pain and functional limitations specific to plantar fasciitis. It includes questions related to pain intensity, duration, frequency, and the impact on daily activities, aiming to differentiate plantar fasciitis from other heel pain conditions
Measured: 3 weeks
Goniometry
A goniometer will be used to measure the range of motion (ROM) of the ankle joint and 1st MTP joint
Measured: 3 weeks
Secondary outcomes (1)
Windlass test
The Windlass Test is a clinical assessment tool used to evaluate the integrity of the plantar fascia and assist in diagnosing plantar fasciitis. This test involves dorsiflexing the great toe to stretch the plantar fascia, observing for pain reproduction or palpable tightening
Measured: 3 weeks
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted23 Feb 2026
- Study start1 Oct 2025
- Primary completion2 Mar 2026
- Study completion2 Mar 2026
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Plantar Fasciitis of Both FeetStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by Riphah International UniversityThe sponsor's other registered studies.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind
- Who is masked
- Participant
- Enrolment
- 36 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Riphah International University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
- Investigators
- hafsa Siddiqui, MSOMPT, Principal investigator, Riphah International University
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07426783
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- Noor Fatima MS-PT/02215
- Status last verified
- Apr 2026
- First submitted
- 17 Feb 2026
- Last updated
- 3 Apr 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- Yes
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- No
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 3 Apr 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Comparative Effects of Fascial Manipulation and Dry Needling Technique in Management of Chronic Plantar Fasciitis
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07426783
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- Noor Fatima MS-PT/02215
- Conditions
- Plantar Fasciitis of Both Feet
- Keywords
- Fascial Manipulation, Dry Needling, Plantar Fasciitis
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 36 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Riphah International UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 1 Oct 2025 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 2 Mar 2026 (actual)
- Study completion
- 2 Mar 2026 (actual)
- First posted
- 23 Feb 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
The goal of this randomized controlled clinical trial is to evaluate whether Fascial Manipulation (FM) or Dry Needling (DN) can effectively reduce pain, improve functional mobility, and enhance range of motion (ROM) in individuals with chronic Plantar Fasciitis (PF) aged 25-45 years
The main questions it aims to answer are:
- Does Fascial Manipulation significantly reduce pain intensity in patients with chronic Plantar Fasciitis?
- Does Dry Needling provide comparable or superior improvements in functional mobility and ankle-foot ROM compared to Fascial Manipulation?
Researchers will compare the Fascial Manipulation group to the Dry Needling group to determine which intervention is more effective in improving pain and functional outcomes in chronic PF.
Participants will:
Receive either Fascial Manipulation or Dry Needling interventions according to their assigned group.
Attend treatment sessions twice a week for six weeks.
Undergo baseline, mid, and post-intervention assessments of pain (VAS-100scale), functional mobility (FFI), diagnostic (PFPS, Windlass, and ankle-foot range of motion (goniometric measurements).
Detailed description
Plantar fasciitis (PF) is one of the most common causes of heel pain, characterized by inflammation and micro tears in the plantar fascia, a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the sole from the heel to the toes. This condition typically results from repetitive stress, excessive foot loading, or biomechanical imbalances, leading to stabbing pain, particularly during the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of inactivity. PF is often classified as an overuse injury and is commonly associated with factors such as prolonged standing, high-impact activities, obesity, and improper footwear. Despite being self-limiting in some cases, chronic PF can significantly impact mobility and quality of life, making effective management strategies essential for long-term relief.
Plantar fasciitis (PF) is a leading cause of chronic heel pain, affecting approximately 10% of the population at some point in their lives. It is particularly prevalent among individuals aged 30 to 60 years. It is more commonly observed in women than men, with a female-to-male ratio of nearly 2:1. Professions requiring prolonged standing or repetitive weight-bearing activities, such as nurses, teachers, factory workers, and military personnel, are at higher risk. Additionally, PF is a common overuse injury among athletes, especially runners, whose prevalence ranges from 4% to 22%, depending on the intensity of training and biomechanical factors. Despite the widespread occurrence of PF, managing this condition remains challenging, especially in chronic cases where pain persists for more than six months. Numerous conventional treatments are currently used to treat plantar fasciitis including calf stretching, foot taping, manual therapy (joint mobilization and manipulation; mobilization of soft tissue near sites of nerve entrapment and passive neural mobilization techniques), foot orthosis, oral and injectable anti-inflammatories, and night splints, Surgery is recommended as a last option and is usually done after failure of at least six months of conservative therapy. However, these modalities may be associated with serious side effects and challenges toward an alternative adjunctive treatment are thus demanded. Dry needling are increasingly being used to treat heel pain, as many other musculoskeletal pain.
Fascial manipulation (FM), developed by Luigi Stecco, is a manual therapy technique that focuses on addressing restrictions in the deep fascia to restore normal movement and reduce pain. Fascia, a continuous connective tissue network surrounding muscles and organs, plays a crucial role in movement coordination and force transmission. When fascial densifications or adhesions occur, they can alter biomechanical function and contribute to pain and dysfunction. FM aims to release these fascial restrictions through precise and sustained pressure on specific fascial points, leading to improved proprioception, restored elasticity, and enhanced neuromuscular control. Research has shown that FM can provide significant pain relief and functional improvement in chronic musculoskeletal conditions, making it a promising intervention for PF.
On the other hand, dry needling (DN) is a minimally invasive technique that involves inserting fine monofilament needles into myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) to relieve muscle tension and pain. Unlike acupuncture, which is based on traditional Chinese medicine, DN is rooted in Western medical principles and specifically targets neuromuscular dysfunction. The insertion of needles into hyperirritable muscle spots induces localized twitch responses, which help disrupt the cycle of pain and muscular tightness. Additionally, DN stimulates endorphin release, enhances local blood circulation, and promotes tissue healing. Studies suggest that DN is effective in reducing pain intensity and improving mobility in patients with chronic PF, particularly when combined with other therapeutic interventions such as stretching and manual therapy.
The aim of this study is to compare the effectiveness of Fascial Manipulation (FM) and Dry Needling (DN) combined with conventional therapy in the management of chronic Plantar Fasciitis (PF). By evaluating pain relief, functional improvement, and long-term treatment outcomes, this research seeks to determine which technique offers superior therapeutic benefits and whether a combined approach enhances patient recovery. Additionally, the study aims to address the existing research gap by providing evidence-based insights into the comparative efficacy of these two interventions
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Single blind (participant)
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Fascial Manipulation + conventional PT | Experimental | Other: Fascial Manipulation + Conventional PTFMT: Fascial Manipulation (FM) targets myofascial dysfunction by applying deep manual pressure to densified fascial layers involved in chronic pain and mobility restrictions. The following techniques will be used: * Fascial Release Techniques: This technique will target Plantar fascia, gastrocnemius, soleus, Achilles tendon, and intrinsic foot muscles * Myofascial Stretching: Passive ankle dorsiflexion with toe extension to stretch the plantar fascia and posterior chain Conventional Exercises: Hot pack before fascial manipulation for 10 mins, stretching Exercises (Plantar Fascia Stretch, gastrocnemius stretch, soleus Stretch, towel stretch) and strengthening Exercises (Toe curls, resisted ankle dorsiflexion with resistance band, heel raises). Total duration is 2 sessions per week for 6 consecutive weeks. |
| Dry needling + Conventional PT | Experimental | Other: Dry Needling + Conventional PTDry Needling: Dry needling (DN) is an effective technique for releasing myofascial trigger points, reducing pain and improving muscle function. The following protocol will be used: The targeted areas are: (plantar fascia, gastrocnemius (medial \& lateral heads), soleus, tibialis posterior) Sterile monofilament needles (0.30 mm x 30 mm) will be used. The needle will be inserted perpendicularly into trigger points by Piston (rapid in and out technique). Duration will be done twice a week for 6 weeks. Conventional Exercises: Ice therapy after dry needling to overcome soreness, stretching Exercises (Plantar Fascia Stretch, gastrocnemius stretch, soleus Stretch, towel stretch) and strengthening Exercises (Toe curls, resisted ankle dorsiflexion with resistance band, heel raises). Total duration is 2 sessions per week for 6 consecutive weeks |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 25 to 45 years
- Sex
- Female only
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (6 listed)
- Participants falling in this category would be recruited into the study.
- Females aged 25-45 years with chronic heel pain with symptoms persisting for more than one month.
- Having a heel pain on the first step during the last week with the rate of at least 40 mm on visual analogue scale.
- Presence of morning heel pain, tenderness at the medial calcaneal tubercle, and heel spur, or pain exacerbated by prolonged standing, walking, or dorsiflexion
- Patients accepting to discontinue analgesics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications and oral/topical paracetamol during the study period.
Key exclusion criteria (13 listed)
- Participants fall in this category would be excluded of the study.
- History of foot or ankle fractures, surgeries, or inflammatory conditions like RA.
- Presence of any neurological disorders affecting gait.
- Participants with diagnosed tendinopathies, including Achilles tendinopathy, posterior tibial tendinopathy, etc. will be excluded from the study to ensure the specificity of plantar fasciitis.
- Participants with metabolic disorders (e.g., osteomalacia, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes) affecting bone and soft tissue integrity will be excluded to prevent confounding effects on pain, healing, and treatment outcomes
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Fascial Manipulation + Conventional PTFascial Manipulation (FM) targets myofascial dysfunction by applying deep manual pressure to densified fascial layers involved in chronic pain and mobility restrictions. The following techniques will be used: * Fascial Release Techniques: This technique will target Plantar fascia, gastrocnemius, soleus, Achilles tendon, and intrinsic foot muscles * Myofascial Stretching: Passive ankle dorsiflexion with toe extension to stretch the plantar fascia and posterior chain Conventional Exercises: Hot pack before fascial manipulation for 10 mins, stretching Exercises (Plantar Fascia Stretch, gastrocnemius stretch, soleus Stretch, towel stretch) and strengthening Exercises (Toe curls, resisted ankle dorsiflexion with resistance band, heel raises). Total duration is 2 sessions per week for 6 consecutive weeks | Other | Fascial Manipulation + conventional PT |
| Dry Needling + Conventional PTDry Needling: Dry needling (DN) is an effective technique for releasing myofascial trigger points, reducing pain and improving muscle function. The following protocol will be used: The targeted areas are: (plantar fascia, gastrocnemius (medial \& lateral heads), soleus, tibialis posterior) Sterile monofilament needles (0.30 mm x 30 mm) will be used. The needle will be inserted perpendicularly into trigger points by Piston (rapid in and out technique). Duration will be done twice a week for 6 weeks. Conventional Exercises: Ice therapy after dry needling to overcome soreness, stretching Exercises (Plantar Fascia Stretch, gastrocnemius stretch, soleus Stretch, towel stretch) and strengthening Exercises (Toe curls, resisted ankle dorsiflexion with resistance band, heel raises). Total duration is 2 sessions per week for 6 consecutive weeks. | Other | Dry needling + Conventional PT |
Primary outcome
Foot Function Index (FFI):
Time frame: 3 weeks
It is a self-reported questionnaire designed to assess pain, disability, and activity limitation in individuals with foot disorders. It consists of 23 items divided into three subscales: pain, disability, and activity restriction
Visual Analog Scale (VAS 100):
Time frame: 3 weeks
To assess pain intensity, a 100 mm horizontal Visual Analog Scale (VAS) will be employed, where patients mark their pain level along a continuum ranging from 0 mm (no pain) to 100 mm (worst possible pain). Patient will be asked to verbally report the pain score.
Plantar Fasciitis Pain/Disability Scale (PFPS)
Time frame: 3 weeks
The Plantar Fasciitis Pain/Disability Scale (PFPS) is a specialized tool designed to assess pain and functional limitations specific to plantar fasciitis. It includes questions related to pain intensity, duration, frequency, and the impact on daily activities, aiming to differentiate plantar fasciitis from other heel pain conditions
Goniometry
Time frame: 3 weeks
A goniometer will be used to measure the range of motion (ROM) of the ankle joint and 1st MTP joint
1 secondary outcome
Windlass test
Time frame: 3 weeks
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 3 Apr 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: No
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
hafsa Siddiqui, MSOMPT principal investigator
Riphah International University
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Fascial Manipulation + Conventional PT and Dry Needling + Conventional PT in people with Plantar Fasciitis of Both Feet, run by Riphah International University at 1 site in Pakistan.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 6 inclusion and 13 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 3 Apr 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Pakistan. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Foot Function Index (FFI): (time frame: 3 weeks). The study lists 4 primary outcomes in all. It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 3 Apr 2026.