This study investigated the immediate effects of two manual therapy approaches, myofascial release and the fascial distortion model, applied to the calf and plantar fascia in healthy adults. Participants were randomly assigned to one of the two intervention groups. Flexibility, balance, and postural control were assessed before and after the intervention to examine potential remote effects along the superficial back line. The purpose of this study was to compare the short-term functional effects of these two manual therapy techniques.
This randomized pilot study included healthy adult participants who were assigned to either a myofascial release group or a fascial distortion model group. Manual therapy was applied to the calf muscles and plantar fascia of the dominant lower extremity. Outcome measures related to flexibility, balance, and postural control were assessed immediately before and after the intervention. The study was designed to explore short-term functional changes and to compare the effects of two different manual therapy techniques.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NON_RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
20
Myofascial release applied to the calf muscles and plantar fascia using gentle, sustained manual pressure.
Fascial Distortion Model techniques applied to the calf muscles and plantar fascia using targeted manual pressure.
Gyeongsangnam-do
Changwon, Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea
Weight-Bearing Lunge Test (WBLT)
The Weight-Bearing Lunge Test was used to assess ankle dorsiflexion range of motion by measuring the maximum distance (cm) from the great toe to the wall while maintaining heel contact.
Time frame: Immediately before and immediately after the intervention
Straight Leg Raise Test (SLR)
The Straight Leg Raise test was used to assess hamstring flexibility. With the participant in a supine position, the hip was passively flexed with the knee fully extended, and the maximum hip flexion angle (degrees) was measured using a goniometer.
Time frame: Immediately before and immediately after the intervention
Functional Reach Test (FRT)
The Functional Reach Test was used to assess dynamic balance. Participants stood upright and reached forward as far as possible without stepping or losing balance. The distance (cm) between the starting position and the maximal forward reach was recorded.
Time frame: Immediately before and immediately after the intervention
Single-Leg Hop for Distance Test (SLHD)
Single-Leg Hop for Distance Test (SLHD)
Time frame: Immediately before and immediately after the intervention
Bunkie Test (BT)
The Bunkie Test was used to assess lower-extremity and trunk muscular endurance related to the Superficial Back Line. Participants maintained the test position as long as possible, and the holding time (seconds) was recorded.
Time frame: Immediately before and immediately after the intervention
Finger-to-Floor Distance Test (FFD)
The Finger-to-Floor Distance test was used to evaluate trunk and posterior chain flexibility. Participants bent forward from a standing position with knees extended, and the vertical distance (cm) between the fingertips and the floor was measured.
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Time frame: Immediately before and immediately after the intervention