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NCT Number: NCT07078513

Active Release Technique Versus Strain-Counter Strain in Improving Pain and Function in Plantar Fasciitis

This randomized controlled trial compares the effectiveness of Active Release Technique (ART) and Strain-Counterstrain (SCS) in treating plantar fasciitis. Forty participants will be divided into two groups receiving either ART or SCS over a four-week period. The study aims to identify the more effective manual therapy technique for reducing pain and improving function in patients with plantar fasciitis.

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Key information

Conditions

Plantar Fascitis Fasciitis Fasciitis, Plantar Foot Diseases Musculoskeletal Diseases

Age range

25 year–45 year

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

Riphah international University Malakand Campus

Chakdara, KPK, 18800, Pakistan

About this study

This randomized controlled trial investigates the comparative effectiveness of Active Release Technique (ART) and Strain-Counterstrain (SCS) in managing plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain and functional limitation. Forty participants will be randomly assigned to two intervention groups, each receiving either ART or SCS over a four-week period, with sessions conducted three times per week. ART involves targeted pressure with active tissue movement to release adhesions, while SCS uses passive positioning to relieve muscle tension. The study will be conducted at Bacha Khan Medical Complex, Swabi. Data will be analyzed using appropriate statistical methods to determine the superior technique. The findings aim to support evidence-based manual therapy approaches in clinical physiotherapy practice.

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: No

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

  • Patients age 25-45 years diagnosed with plantar fasciitis.
  • Chronic plantar fasciitis (symptoms lasting more than 3 months).
  • Ability to participate in active movement for ART.

Exclusion criteria

  • Recent lower limb surgery.
  • Neurological disorders affecting gait or mobility.
  • Acute inflammatory conditions of the foot.

Treatment and study plan

Active Release Technique

Other

Active Release Technique (ART) is a hands-on manual therapy that targets soft tissue restrictions by combining precise pressure with patient-assisted movement. It helps break down adhesions, improve mobility, and reduce pain by restoring normal tissue function.

Strain counter strain tecnhnique

Other

Strain-Counterstrain is a gentle, passive manual therapy that relieves muscle tension by positioning the body in a pain-free, comfortable posture. The therapist holds this position for about 90 seconds while applying light pressure to tender points, allowing the muscle and fascia to relax and reset.

Primary outcomes

  1. NPRS

    Time frame: four weeks

    The Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) is a 0 to 10 self-reported scale used to assess pain intensity, where 0 = no pain and 10 = worst possible pain. It is a simple, reliable tool commonly used in clinical trials to measure pain levels before and after interventions.

  2. Foot Function Index (FFI)

    Time frame: Four weeks

    Functional mobility will be assessed using the Foot Function Index (FFI), a validated self-reported questionnaire designed to measure the impact of foot pathology on pain, disability, and activity limitation in daily life.

  3. Goniometer

    Time frame: Four weeks

    a reliable and widely used clinical tool that measures joint angles in degrees. It helps quantify movement limitations and improvements in specific planes, such as flexion, extension, abduction, and rotation.

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Riphah International University

Other

Registry information

Important dates

Study start
2025
Primary completion
2025
Study completion
2026
First posted
Jul 22, 2025
Registry last updated
Feb 19, 2026

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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