Low-Dye Taping Versus Medial Arch Support in Managing Pain and Pain-Related Disability in Patients With Plantar Fasciitis

Abstract

Plantar fasciitis is thought to develop because of repeated mechanical stresses. This study aimed to compare 2 means of foot arches support—low-Dye tape (LDT) and medial arch support (MAS)—in patients with plantar fasciitis. Thirty patients with unilateral plantar fasciitis (23 men and 7 women) were randomly assigned to the LDT or MAS groups. Both groups were assessed before and after experiment for pain and foot function. Both groups received 9 sessions over 3 weeks consisting of ultrasound and calf muscles stretching. They were instructed to maintain supportive intervention (LDT or MAS) throughout this period. Pre—post comparison showed reduced pain and improved function in both groups. Between-groups analysis showed non-significant difference in pre-VAS and pre-FPDS. Post-VAS and post-FPDS showed significant improvement in patients in MAS group. Results indicate that MAS is more convenient for short-term management of pain and disability in patients with plantar fasciitis than LDT.Level of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level II