Effectiveness of Positional Release Therapy in the Management of Plantar Fasciitis: A Case Report

Abstract

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common conditions diagnosed in the foot and presents with many treatment options. However, there is still  scanty evidence supporting the effectiveness and use of Positional Release Therapy (PRT) in the management of the condition. In this study, we  reported a case of a 35-year-old housewife who was diagnosed medically with plantar fasciitis of 6 months duration. Conservative management  using ultrasound, stretching/strengthening exercises, ankle joint mobilisation and home programme proved ineffective during the first two weeks of her management with VAS score still 6/10 from 8/10 at presentation. However, treatment modification using PRT nullified the patient's symptoms  during the other two weeks of the rehabilitation protocol (VAS = 2/10). Foot and Ankle Ability Measure was 18 pre-intervention and after the PRT for  2 weeks became 4 points. The findings of this report suggest that PRT should be incorporated in the physiotherapy management of patients with  plantar fasciitis.