Plantar FasciitisPFNCT07616492
Comparing Bowen Therapy and Tennis Ball Technique for Pain and Disability in Plantar Fasciitis Patients, A Randomized Controlled Trial
A study testing Bowen therapy and Self myofascial release by Tennis ball technique in people with Plantar Fasciitis, run by Green International University at 1 site in Pakistan.
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. Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 20 to 50 years
- Conditions the study is for
- Plantar Fasciitis
- What is being tested?
- Bowen therapy and Self myofascial release by Tennis ball technique
- Type of treatment
- Surgery or procedure
- Could I receive a placebo?
- No, everyone receives an active treatment
- How many people
- 80 participants
- Where
- 1 sitePakistan
- Study dates
- 2 Nov 2025to 6 May 2026
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- None posted in the registry
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 20 to 50 years
- All sexes
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult
Who may be able to join
None listed.
Who cannot join
- History of injury in the lower limb within the last 6 months or surgery on the lower limb within the last 6 months. Known diseases which are systemic (or neurological) in nature (e.g., diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, peripheral neuropathy). The use of corticosteroid injections or medications that disrupt the connective tissue has continued to be administered
Trial locations and contacts
1 site in 1 country.
About this study
Official title: Comparative Effects of Bowen Therapy and Tennis Ball Technique on Pain and Functional Disability in Patients With Plantar Fasciitis, A Randomized Controlled Trial
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.
Read the detailed description
Plantar fasciitis is a musculoskeletal condition that causes pain and tenderness in the heel and the bottom of the foot. It develops when the plantar fascia, a strong fibrous tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes, becomes irritated or overstretched due to repeated stress. The condition is commonly seen in individuals who spend long hours standing, athletes, overweight individuals, and people with improper foot posture or unsuitable footwear. Patients often complain of severe heel pain during the first few steps after waking up or after prolonged sitting. If not treated properly, the pain can gradually interfere with walking, work performance, physical activity, and overall quality of life.
Different conservative treatment approaches are used to manage plantar fasciitis, including stretching exercises, manual therapy, massage techniques, strengthening programs, and pain-relieving modalities. Among these approaches, Bowen Therapy and the Tennis Ball Technique have gained attention because they are simple, non-surgical, and cost-effective methods that may help reduce pain and improve foot function.
Bowen Therapy is a gentle hands-on therapy that involves specific rolling movements over muscles, tendons, and soft tissues. The technique is performed with pauses between movements, allowing the body to respond naturally and promote relaxation and healing. It is believed that Bowen Therapy helps improve blood circulation, reduce muscle tightness, decrease stress on the plantar fascia, and restore normal movement patterns. Because the technique is gentle and non-invasive, it may be suitable for patients who cannot tolerate aggressive manual treatments.
The Tennis Ball Technique is a self-management approach commonly used for stretching and releasing tension in the plantar fascia. In this method, a patient rolls a tennis ball under the sole of the foot while applying controlled pressure. This movement provides a massage-like effect that may help loosen tight tissues, improve flexibility, stimulate circulation, and reduce discomfort in the heel area. The technique is easy to perform at home, requires minimal equipment, and can be incorporated into daily routines, making it a practical treatment option for many patients.
The purpose of this study is to compare the effectiveness of Bowen Therapy and the Tennis Ball Technique in reducing pain and improving functional disability in individuals with plantar fasciitis. The research aims to evaluate which treatment method provides better outcomes in terms of pain relief, mobility, and the ability to perform daily activities comfortably. Understanding the comparative effects of these two interventions may help healthcare professionals select more effective rehabilitation strategies and provide patients with accessible and beneficial treatment options for long-term management of plantar fasciitis.
- Conditions
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Being tested
- Bowen therapy, Self myofascial release by Tennis ball technique
- Keywords
- tennis ball technique, bowen therapy, plantar fasciitis
- Medical subject headings
- Fasciitis, Plantar
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Bowen therapyProcedure or surgery
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
Self myofascial release by Tennis ball techniqueProcedure or surgery
Participants in Group B will perform self-myofascial release (SMR) using a tennis ball. The procedure for self-administration will be as follows:
- 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.
- 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.
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| Bowen Therapy Group | Experimental | Participants in Group A will receive Bowen Therapy. The procedure will be as follows:
1. Frequency and Duration:
Bowen therapy sessions will be conducted twice a week for a duration of 12 weeks.
Each session will last approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
2. Treatment Focus:
During each Bowen therapy session, the therapist will apply gentle and precise neuromuscular manipulations to specific anatomical points, focusing on the lower limb and foot. These points include fascial trigger spots and other myofascial tension areas that are implicated in plantar fasciitis.
The Bowen technique involves rolling motions applied with the therapist's fingers or thumbs, working through the fascia and muscle tissues to promote fascial release, improve circulation, and reduce pain. Receives: Procedure: Bowen therapy |
| Tennis Ball Technique Group | Experimental | 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. Receives: Procedure: Self myofascial release by Tennis ball technique |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
pain Intensity
Pain (VAS): Pain is the subjective experience of discomfort related to plantar fasciitis, measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Participants rate their pain on a 10-point scale from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst possible pain), assessing pain at rest, during activity, and in the morning
Measured: Baseline and 12 weeks post intervention
Secondary outcomes (1)
change in function disability
Foot Function Index (FFI): The Foot Function Index (FFI) is a self-reported tool that measures pain and functional limitations caused by plantar fasciitis. It consists of three subscales-pain, disability, and activity limitation-each scored from 0 (no difficulty) to 10 (extreme difficulty), evaluating the impact on daily activities like walking and standing
Measured: Baseline and 12 weeks post intervention
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted1 Jun 2026
- Study start2 Nov 2025
- Primary completion29 Apr 2026
- Study completion6 May 2026
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Plantar FasciitisStudies of the same condition, open and under way.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Triple blind
- Who is masked
- Participant, Care provider, Outcomes assessor
- Enrolment
- 80 participants (actual)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Green International University
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Principal investigator, Manahil Mustafa, Green International University
- Investigators
- Department of physical therapy, Principal investigator, Alara healthcare Wapda town lahore
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07616492
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- GIU/REC/26-29
- Other IDs
- GIU/REC/26-29
- Acronym
- PF
- Status last verified
- May 2026
- First submitted
- 23 May 2026
- Last updated
- 1 Jun 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
- Individual data sharing
- Yes: only IPD used in the results publication will be shared
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 1 Jun 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Comparative Effects of Bowen Therapy and Tennis Ball Technique on Pain and Functional Disability in Patients With Plantar Fasciitis, A Randomized Controlled Trial
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07616492
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- PF / GIU/REC/26-29
- Conditions
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Keywords
- tennis ball technique, bowen therapy, plantar fasciitis
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Completed
- Enrolment
- 80 participants (actual)
- Lead sponsor
- Green International UniversityUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 2 Nov 2025 (actual)
- Primary completion
- 29 Apr 2026 (actual)
- Study completion
- 6 May 2026 (actual)
- First posted
- 1 Jun 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
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.
Detailed description
Plantar fasciitis is a musculoskeletal condition that causes pain and tenderness in the heel and the bottom of the foot. It develops when the plantar fascia, a strong fibrous tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes, becomes irritated or overstretched due to repeated stress. The condition is commonly seen in individuals who spend long hours standing, athletes, overweight individuals, and people with improper foot posture or unsuitable footwear. Patients often complain of severe heel pain during the first few steps after waking up or after prolonged sitting. If not treated properly, the pain can gradually interfere with walking, work performance, physical activity, and overall quality of life.
Different conservative treatment approaches are used to manage plantar fasciitis, including stretching exercises, manual therapy, massage techniques, strengthening programs, and pain-relieving modalities. Among these approaches, Bowen Therapy and the Tennis Ball Technique have gained attention because they are simple, non-surgical, and cost-effective methods that may help reduce pain and improve foot function.
Bowen Therapy is a gentle hands-on therapy that involves specific rolling movements over muscles, tendons, and soft tissues. The technique is performed with pauses between movements, allowing the body to respond naturally and promote relaxation and healing. It is believed that Bowen Therapy helps improve blood circulation, reduce muscle tightness, decrease stress on the plantar fascia, and restore normal movement patterns. Because the technique is gentle and non-invasive, it may be suitable for patients who cannot tolerate aggressive manual treatments.
The Tennis Ball Technique is a self-management approach commonly used for stretching and releasing tension in the plantar fascia. In this method, a patient rolls a tennis ball under the sole of the foot while applying controlled pressure. This movement provides a massage-like effect that may help loosen tight tissues, improve flexibility, stimulate circulation, and reduce discomfort in the heel area. The technique is easy to perform at home, requires minimal equipment, and can be incorporated into daily routines, making it a practical treatment option for many patients.
The purpose of this study is to compare the effectiveness of Bowen Therapy and the Tennis Ball Technique in reducing pain and improving functional disability in individuals with plantar fasciitis. The research aims to evaluate which treatment method provides better outcomes in terms of pain relief, mobility, and the ability to perform daily activities comfortably. Understanding the comparative effects of these two interventions may help healthcare professionals select more effective rehabilitation strategies and provide patients with accessible and beneficial treatment options for long-term management of plantar fasciitis.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Triple blind (participant, care provider, outcomes assessor)
- Number of arms
- 2
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| Bowen Therapy Group | Experimental | Procedure: Bowen therapyParticipants in Group A will receive Bowen Therapy. The procedure will be as follows: 1. Frequency and Duration: Bowen therapy sessions will be conducted twice a week for a duration of 12 weeks. Each session will last approximately 30 to 45 minutes. 2. Treatment Focus: During each Bowen therapy session, the therapist will apply gentle and precise neuromuscular manipulations to specific anatomical points, focusing on the lower limb and foot. These points include fascial trigger spots and other myofascial tension areas that are implicated in plantar fasciitis. The Bowen technique involves rolling motions applied with the therapist's fingers or thumbs, working through the fascia and muscle tissues to promote fascial release, improve circulation, and reduce pain. |
| Tennis Ball Technique Group | Experimental | Procedure: Self myofascial release by Tennis ball techniqueParticipants 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. |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 20 to 50 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (0 listed)
Key exclusion criteria (1 listed)
- History of injury in the lower limb within the last 6 months or surgery on the lower limb within the last 6 months. Known diseases which are systemic (or neurological) in nature (e.g., diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, peripheral neuropathy). The use of corticosteroid injections or medications that disrupt the connective tissue has continued to be administered
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Bowen therapyParticipants 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 or surgery | Bowen Therapy Group |
| Self myofascial release by Tennis ball techniqueParticipants 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. | Procedure or surgery | Tennis Ball Technique Group |
Primary outcome
pain Intensity
Time frame: Baseline and 12 weeks post intervention
Pain (VAS): Pain is the subjective experience of discomfort related to plantar fasciitis, measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). Participants rate their pain on a 10-point scale from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst possible pain), assessing pain at rest, during activity, and in the morning
1 secondary outcome
change in function disability
Time frame: Baseline and 12 weeks post intervention
Results and safety
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 1 Jun 2026.
- Individual participant dataSharing planned: Yes. only IPD used in the results publication will be shared
Related trials for Plantar Fasciitis
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Hip Muscle Strengthening and Calf Myofascial Release in Females With Chronic Plantar Fasciitis
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F-18 Sodium Fluoride PET/CT-Guided Pain Palliation in Chronic Plantar Fasciitis: A Comparative Study of ¹⁷⁷Lutetium-Corticosteroid-Local Anaesthetic Injection vs Corticosteroid-Local Anaesthetic Injection
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Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part. This study is not recruiting at the moment.
Department of physical therapy principal investigator
Alara healthcare Wapda town lahore
1 site in 1 country: see every site and its status.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Bowen therapy and Self myofascial release by Tennis ball technique in people with Plantar Fasciitis, run by Green International University at 1 site in Pakistan.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 0 inclusion and 1 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: finished, as of the sponsor's last update on 1 Jun 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
Where is the study taking place?
The record lists 1 site in Pakistan. Whether a site is taking part right now should be confirmed with that site. See every site.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
The study is completed, but results are not available in the source record. That does not mean the treatment did or did not work.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
pain Intensity (time frame: Baseline and 12 weeks post intervention). It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 1 Jun 2026.