Abstract
Aim: The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the effects of Instrument-Assisted Soft-Tissue Mobilisation (IASTM) and Therapeutic Ultrasound in patients with heel pain in terms of Numerical Pain Rating Scale and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure scale. This was undertaken as even though Ultrasound is regularly used, heel pain still remains resistant to treatment in some patients. Hence, the need to compare a relatively newer technique with it.
 Study Design : Experimental study
 Place and Duration: Department of Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Sciences, Ravi Nair Physiotherapy College, Sawangi (Meghe) , Wardha , duration of 12 months.
 Methods: Seventy people (n=70) with heel discomfort (lasting 6 weeks to 1 year) were chosen at random and placed into two groups, each getting eight therapy sessions. IASTM and Home Exercise Program was given to Group A, whereas Therapeutic Ultrasound and Home Exercise Program was given to Group Calf muscle stretches and Plantar fascia stretches were incorporated in the Home Exercise Programme. Outcome measures were recorded both at the beginning of treatment and after final treatment. The patients were assessed for Numerical Pain Rating Scale with first step in morning and at the beginning of first session and after end of last session and for Foot and Ankle Ability Measure scale at the beginning of first session and after end of last session. A follow up period of 90 days (after last session) was taken, the measurements of Numerical Pain Rating Scale and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure scale were taken again to see the long-term effects.
 Results: Group A which received IASTM + Home exercises showed great improvements than Ultrasound and Home exercise group, from baseline to week 4 after the pain intensity and foot function were assessed using Numerical Pain Rating Scale and Foot and Ankle Ability Measure scale. Statistically significant differences were found in both the groups. i.e. P=0.0001. But 7 people in Ultrasound group complained of pain and functional ability at follow-up session.
 Conclusion: In this study, it can be concluded that combining both the IASTM and Home Exercise Program have got beneficial effects in decreasing the pain intensity thus improving the foot and ankle function in patients with heel pain.
Highlights
The 'heel' is the prominent rear part of the foot
The intention of this study focused on the use of the Instrument-Assisted Soft-Tissue Mobilisation (IASTM) (Edge mobility tool) in the heel pain reduction and in improving the FAAM score
The findings suggested about the efficacy of the IASTM on heel pain
Summary
The 'heel' is the prominent rear part of the foot. It is based on the calcaneus (heel bone) protruding behind the lower leg bones' articulation. To distribute the compressive stresses imposed on the heel during locomotion (especially during stance phase) the foot’s sole has a covering of connective subcutaneous tissues which are upto 2 cm thick and lying under the heel [1]. Heel discomfort is one of the most common ailments. Retrocalcaneal bursitis causes heel discomfort because of repetitive pressure from ill-fitting footwear or the deformity itself. Erythema and swelling above the bursa, as well as discomfort to direct palpation, are symptoms of retrocalcaneal bursitis [2,3]
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