A Literature Review on Graston-assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation Technique in Patients with Plantar Fasciitis

Abstract

Introduction: Plantar fasciitis is a common condition characterised by inflammation and microtears of the plantar-fascia, resulting in heel pain and impaired foot function. Traditional treatments include stretching, orthotics and physical therapy. Graston-assisted soft tissue mobilisation has emerged as a promising adjunctive therapy for plantar fasciitis, aiming to improve outcomes through targeted tissue manipulation. Aim: To critically evaluate existing research on the effectiveness of Graston-assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation (GASTM) techniques in treating patients with plantar fasciitis. Materials and Methods: A literature search was conducted from Pubmed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar from year February 2014 to February 2024. The search utilised MeSH key terms such as “Plantar fasciitis”, “Graston technique”, “Soft tissue mobilisation”, “Quality of life”, “Range of motion” employing Sanam Maurya, Postgraduate Student, Department of Physiotherapy, Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana, Ambala, Haryana, India. Sunita Sharma, Associate Professor, Department of Physiotherapy, Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana, Ambala, Haryana, India. A Literature Review on Graston-assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation Technique in Patients with Plantar Fasciitis Abstract ID: PG-43 Boolean operators (AND, OR). A total of 2642 articles were found from different databases. Duplicate articles was removed. A total of six articles fulfilled the eligibility criteria and were included for the present review. Results: The reviewed literature primarily employed outcome measures like Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Foot and Ankle Disability Index (FADI) and Foot Function Index (FFI). Out of 2642 articles, only six met the criteria in which Graston technique effect on plantar fasciitis was evaluated and were included in the review. The review demonstrated that the Graston therapy significantly improves plantar fasciitis. Conclusion: The GASTM can effectively reduce soft tissue restriction, alleviate plantar-fascia pain, increase dorsiflexion range, and improve foot and ankle function.