The effectiveness of manipulation of the subtalar joint combined with static stretching of the triceps surae muscles compared to manipulation alone in the treatment of Plantar Fasciitis

Abstract

Plantar Fasciitis (PF) is a common injury, and one which is known to be stubborn to many forms of treatment. The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effectiveness of manipulation of the subtalar joint combined with static stretching of the Triceps Surae muscles compared to manipulation alone in the treatment of PF.

Studies have shown chiropractic manipulation to be effective in treating this overuse injury, and gastro-soleus stretching is a treatment advocated by many authors, but which has not yet been investigated in combination with manipulation.

This study consisted of 40 patients who were randomly divided into two equal groups. Group One received manipulation to restrictions in the subtalar joint, and Group Two received subtalar manipulation in addition to two static stretched of the gastro-soleus muscles.