Comparing Bowen Therapy and Tennis Ball Technique for Pain and Disability in Plantar Fasciitis Patients, A Randomized Controlled Trial

Summary

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain and can make everyday activities such as walking, standing for long periods, or climbing stairs difficult and uncomfortable. It usually occurs due to stress and inflammation in the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot. People suffering from this condition often experience sharp pain, especially during the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest.

This study focuses on comparing two non-invasive treatment methods: Bowen Therapy and the Tennis Ball Technique. Bowen Therapy is a gentle manual therapy that uses soft rolling movements over muscles and connective tissues to reduce tension, improve circulation, and promote the body's natural healing process. On the other hand, the Tennis Ball Technique is a simple self-treatment method in which patients roll a tennis ball under the foot to massage the plantar fascia, relieve tightness, and reduce pain.

The main purpose of this research is to determine which technique is more effective in decreasing pain and improving functional ability in patients with plantar fasciitis. By comparing these two methods, the study aims to provide a safe, affordable, and easy treatment option that can improve mobility, reduce discomfort, and enhance the quality of life of individuals suffering from heel pain.

Conditions

• Plantar Fasciitis

Interventions

PROCEDURE

Bowen therapy

Participants in Group A will undergo Bowen Therapy and the treatment will be provided twice weekly for 12 weeks, with each session lasting about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on individual response and condition. During each session, the therapist will apply gentle, targeted rolling movements using fingers or thumbs on specific points of the lower limb and foot. These points are selected based on areas of muscle tightness, fascial restriction, and pain related to plantar fasciitis. The technique aims to promote muscle relaxation, improve tissue circulation, and reduce pain by working on the fascial system and supporting overall neuromuscular balance

PROCEDURE

Self myofascial release by Tennis ball technique

Participants in Group B will perform self-myofascial release (SMR) using a tennis ball. The procedure for self-administration will be as follows: 1. Frequency and Duration: Participants will be instructed to perform the self-myofascial release (SMR) using a tennis ball once a day for 12 weeks. Each session will last about 10 to 15 minutes, with the participant rolling the tennis ball under the foot for about 5 to 10 minutes per foot. 2. Technique and Procedure: The participants will be taught the correct technique for rolling the tennis ball under the sole of the foot, with emphasis on applying appropriate pressure to trigger points or areas of tightness (e.g., arch, heel, and plantar fascia). A standardized pressure will be recommended to ensure the ball is rolled with sufficient force to produce fascial release without causing excessive discomfort or injury.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Green International University

  lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

• Department of physical therapy · Alara healthcare Wapda town lahore

Study Design

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

TRIPLE

Model

PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age

20 Years

Max Age

50 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

No

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2025-11-02

Primary Completion

2026-04-29

Completion

2026-05-06

Countries

• Pakistan

Study Locations