This randomized crossover clinical study aims to investigate the immediate effects of plantar fascia release combined with foot exercises on Functional Movement Screen sub-scores in physically active young adults with pes planus.
Participants aged 18-35 years with pes planus, determined by the Navicular Drop Test, will complete two different intervention protocols in a randomized order. Protocol A will include foot-core exercises combined with plantar fascia stretching. Protocol B will include the same foot-core exercises and plantar fascia stretching, with the addition of plantar fascia myofascial release. Each participant will receive both interventions on separate sessions, with a 24-hour washout period between sessions.
Functional movement quality will be assessed using two Functional Movement Screen subtests: Deep Squat and Hurdle Step. These tests will be performed before and after each intervention session to evaluate acute changes in movement performance.
The main hypothesis of the study is that plantar fascia myofascial release combined with foot-core exercises and plantar fascia stretching will produce greater immediate improvements in Functional Movement Screen Deep Squat and Hurdle Step scores compared with foot-core exercises and plantar fascia stretching alone.
Being between 18 and 35 years of age
Voluntarily agreeing to participate in the study and providing written informed consent
Having pes planus according to the Navicular Drop Test result
Having the cognitive ability to understand and perform the Functional Movement Screen (FMS) test instructions
Having a history of ankle sprain, particularly recurrent ankle sprains
Presence of hallux valgus deformity
Presence of hammer toe deformity
Presence of generalized ligamentous laxity
Crossover
Protocol B: Foot Core Exercises, Plantar Fascia Stretching, and Myofascial Release
Other interventionProtocol B consists of all components of Protocol A, including foot core exercises and plantar fascia stretching, with the addition of plantar fascia myofascial release. Myofascial release will be applied manually along the plantar fascia from the calcaneal region toward the metatarsal heads, with pressure adjusted according to participant tolerance. This protocol may be administered in either the first or second session according to the randomized crossover order.
Protocol A: Foot core Exercises and Plantar Facia Streching
Other interventionProtocol A consists of foot core exercises combined with plantar fascia stretching. Foot core exercises include short foot exercise, towel curl, toe spread, great toe extension, and reverse tandem walking. Plantar fascia stretching will be performed using a plantar fascia-specific stretching technique. This protocol may be administered in either the first or second session according to the randomized crossover order.
Change in Functional Movement Screen Hurdle Step Score
The Hurdle Step subtest of the Functional Movement Screen will be used to assess single-leg balance, hip stability, knee control, and ankle stability. Scores ranges from 0 to 3, with higher scores indicating better movement quality. The change from pre-intervention to post-intervention will be compared between protocols.
Change in Functional Movement Screen Deep Squat Score
The Deep Squat subtest of the Functional Movement Screen will be used to assess functional movement quality involving the lower extremities, trunk, shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles. Scores range from 0 to 3, with higher scores indicating better movement quality. The change from pre-intervention to post-intervention will be compared between protocols.
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