Abstract
Objective: This prospective longitudinal study aimed to investigate the long-term effectiveness and maintenance strategies following proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) technique interventions in individuals with plantar fasciitis and limited dorsiflexion which is one of the conditions affecting the community. The primary objectives included quantitatively comparing pain levels, functional mobility, and patient adherence to prescribed strategies over an extended follow-up period. Methods: A cohort of 120 participants with plantar fasciitis and limited dorsiflexion, previously treated with PNF interventions, were enrolled in the study. Follow-up assessments were conducted at three-month intervals over a one-year period. Pain levels were measured using a Visual Analog Scale (VAS), functional mobility was assessed using the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), and patient-reported outcomes were recorded. Qualitative insights into maintenance strategies were obtained through in-depth interviews, covering aspects such as home exercise programs, lifestyle modifications, and adherence to recommendations. Also Kinovea software was used for analysing the dorsiflexion of the foot during gait. Results: Statistical analysis revealed a statistically significant (p < 0.05) reduction in pain levels and improved functional mobility over the study period. Recurrence rates were found lower than baseline, with only 15% of recurrence. Logistic regression analysis identified factors contributing to sustained outcomes, including consistent adherence to prescribed home exercises (p = 0.021) and proactive lifestyle modifications (p = 0.035). Conclusion: This study provides the sustained effectiveness of PNF technique in plantar fasciitis individuals with limited dorsiflexion. The identified maintenance strategies, supported by statistically significant findings, offer practical implications for clinicians and patients, enhancing long-term maintenance strategies for outcomes in this specific patient population.
Acknowledgements
At the very onset, I thank the Almighty for His blessings, which have enabled me to complete this project. I am greatly indebted to my guide and Professor at Saveetha College of Physiotherapy, for his constant support, invaluable suggestions, and unwavering encouragement throughout this dissertation. His guidance has been instrumental in the successful completion of this work. I sincerely thank ISRB officials of Saveetha college of physiotherapy, for their guidance and timely helpful though out the project encouraging me to finish the project and help at the time of my project. Lastly, I would like to thank all the faculty members and staff at Saveetha College of Physiotherapy for their guidance and support, which have greatly contributed to the completion of this dissertation. Also I would like to thank my family and friends for their support.
Recommended Citation
Arumugam K, Dr. Kamalakanan M, (Professor Saveetha College of Physiotherapy, SIMATS) , Sundar Rajan MS, (Saveetha college of physiotherapy, SIMATS) , Hariharan J, (Tutor, SIMATS) , Shenega K, (Saveetha College of Physiotherapy, SIMATS) . Long-Term Relief: Sustained Benefits and Strategies of PNF Techniques for Plantar Fasciitis with Restricted Dorsiflexion: A Kinovea – Software Based Gait Analysis. The Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice. 2025 Apr 15;23(2), Article 30.
