Two physical therapy regimes designed to treat plantar fasciitis will be assessed during a clinical trial at Loyola University Medical Center. A news release from Loyola University Health System reports that in the study, participants will be randomly assigned to one of two treatment groups.

The first group will receive therapy treatments focusing on soft tissue mobilization, with massage and techniques intended to release muscle tightness. This will be performed with hand manipulation by a physical therapist.

The second group will receive an instrument-assisted therapy known as the Graston Technique. In this technique, the therapist uses stainless steel instruments to comb over and identify scar tissue. The release notes that the instruments are then used to help break up the scar tissue so the body can absorb it. The release adds that the therapists have taken a continuing education class that has certified them to perform the technique in a safe and effective way.

Participants will undergo two physical therapy treatments per week for 4 weeks. The release notes that the treatments will take 30 to 60 minutes. Both groups will also perform stretches and strengthening exercises.

According to the release, the study is titled “A Randomized Trial Comparing Traditional Soft Tissue Mobilization and the Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization for the Treatment of Patients with Plantar Fasciitis.” Principal investigator is Katherine Dux, DPM. Co-investigators are Sarah Dickey, DPM, Gabriela Montes, DPM , and Morgan Grubbe, PT, DPT.

For more information, the release encourages individuals to call (708) 216-2612.

Source(s): Newswise, Loyola University Health System