Foot Core Stabilization Exercises Vs. Shockwave Therapy for Pain, Strength, and Function in Plantar Fasciitis

Launched by ISTANBUL MEDIPOL UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL · Mar 17, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying two different treatments for plantar fasciitis, a common condition that causes heel pain. The researchers want to see how effective foot core stabilization exercises compare to shockwave therapy in reducing pain, improving muscle strength, and helping people regain their normal function. By exploring these two approaches, the study aims to find better ways to treat plantar fasciitis and improve the quality of life for those affected.

To participate in the trial, you need to be an adult aged 25 to 60 who has been diagnosed with plantar fasciitis by a qualified doctor. You should have heel pain that has lasted for at least three months and gets worse when you take your first steps in the morning or after resting. Unfortunately, if you've had foot or ankle surgery, certain medical conditions like diabetes or cancer, or if you've tried other treatments without improvement, you may not be eligible for this study. If you join, you can expect to receive either the exercises or the shockwave therapy and help contribute to important research that could benefit many others suffering from this painful condition.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Adults aged 25 to 60 years who have been diagnosed with plantar fasciitis by a physician specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation or an orthopedic specialist.
• • Heel pain localized to the medial calcaneal tubercle, persisting for three months or longer.
• • Pain that worsens with the first steps taken in the morning or after periods of rest.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Individuals who have undergone foot or ankle surgery.
• • Individuals with a history of chronic or active infection in the treatment area.
• • Individuals with Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, systemic inflammatory arthritis, cancer, active tuberculosis, or a history of neurological or vascular diseases.
• • Individuals who have undergone conservative treatment including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for 6 months with no significant improvement.
• • Patients with numbness or tingling in the lower extremity, with or without provocation, or those with undiagnosed pain.
• • Pregnancy.