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Completed

NCT Number: NCT07319507

Immediate Effects of Calf and Plantar Fascia Manual Therapy

This study investigated the immediate effects of two manual therapy approaches, myofascial release and the fascial distortion model, applied to the calf and plantar fascia in healthy adults. Participants were randomly assigned to one of the two intervention groups. Flexibility, balance, and postural control were assessed before and after the intervention to examine potential remote effects along the superficial back line. The purpose of this study was to compare the short-term functional effects of these two manual therapy techniques.

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Key information

Conditions

Musculoskeletal Function

Age range

20 year–29 year

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Interventional

Phase

Not applicable

Primary location

Gyeongsangnam-do

Changwon, Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea

About this study

This randomized pilot study included healthy adult participants who were assigned to either a myofascial release group or a fascial distortion model group. Manual therapy was applied to the calf muscles and plantar fascia of the dominant lower extremity. Outcome measures related to flexibility, balance, and postural control were assessed immediately before and after the intervention. The study was designed to explore short-term functional changes and to compare the effects of two different manual therapy techniques.

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: Yes

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

Inclusion criteria

  • Healthy adults in their 20s (aged 20-29 years).
  • Individuals without current musculoskeletal pain or functional limitations.
  • Individuals able to understand the study procedures and provide informed consent.

Exclusion criteria

  • History of lower extremity injury within the past 6 months.
  • Previous experience with plantar fascia manual therapy.
  • Presence of balance disorders or neurological impairments.

Treatment and study plan

Myofascial Release

Other

Myofascial release applied to the calf muscles and plantar fascia using gentle, sustained manual pressure.

Fascial Distortion Model

Other

Fascial Distortion Model techniques applied to the calf muscles and plantar fascia using targeted manual pressure.

Primary outcomes

  1. Weight-Bearing Lunge Test (WBLT)

    Time frame: Immediately before and immediately after the intervention

    The Weight-Bearing Lunge Test was used to assess ankle dorsiflexion range of motion by measuring the maximum distance (cm) from the great toe to the wall while maintaining heel contact.

Secondary outcomes

  1. Straight Leg Raise Test (SLR)

    Time frame: Immediately before and immediately after the intervention

    The Straight Leg Raise test was used to assess hamstring flexibility. With the participant in a supine position, the hip was passively flexed with the knee fully extended, and the maximum hip flexion angle (degrees) was measured using a goniometer.

  2. Functional Reach Test (FRT)

    Time frame: Immediately before and immediately after the intervention

    The Functional Reach Test was used to assess dynamic balance. Participants stood upright and reached forward as far as possible without stepping or losing balance. The distance (cm) between the starting position and the maximal forward reach was recorded.

  3. Single-Leg Hop for Distance Test (SLHD)

    Time frame: Immediately before and immediately after the intervention

    Single-Leg Hop for Distance Test (SLHD)

  4. Bunkie Test (BT)

    Time frame: Immediately before and immediately after the intervention

    The Bunkie Test was used to assess lower-extremity and trunk muscular endurance related to the Superficial Back Line. Participants maintained the test position as long as possible, and the holding time (seconds) was recorded.

  5. Finger-to-Floor Distance Test (FFD)

    Time frame: Immediately before and immediately after the intervention

    The Finger-to-Floor Distance test was used to evaluate trunk and posterior chain flexibility. Participants bent forward from a standing position with knees extended, and the vertical distance (cm) between the fingertips and the floor was measured.

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

JiYoung Kim

Other

Registry information

Official study title

Immediate Remote Effects of Myofascial Release Versus the Fascial Distortion Model on Flexibility and Postural Control Via the Superficial Back Line: A Randomized Pilot Study

Important dates

Study start
2025
Primary completion
2025
Study completion
2025
First posted
Jan 6, 2026
Registry last updated
Jan 6, 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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