MUSCLE ENERGY TECHNIQUE VERSUS PASSIVE MANUAL SOFT TISSUE THERAPIES ON PLANTER FASCIITIS: A SYSTEMIC REVIEW

Abstract

Aims of Study: Planter fasciitis (PF) is a common cause of heel pain. Muscle energy technique (METs) and passive soft tissue therapies are widely used for its management. The objective of this review was to evaluate the comparative effectiveness of METs and passive soft tissue therapies on PF. Methodology: An extensive electronic literature search was made using different databases and search engines. Studies regarding METs and soft tissues therapies were investigated according to the eligibility criteria, using extracted data form and assessed for risk of bias. Outcome measures were pain and functional status. Quality assessment was done with Downs and Black, Cochrane risk of bias tool, PEDro scale and Critical Appraisal Skill Program (CASP) tool. Results: Five articles met the selection criteria, were systematically reviewed for quantitative synthesis on comparative effects of METs and passive soft tissue therapies on PF. The quality of studies was moderate to high. Limitations and Future Implications: Less evidence on desired interventions and outcome measures was the limitation. Relative efficacy helps in clinical decision making and improves patient’s related outcomes. Originality: This review is the independent creation of authors. Conclusion: Manual soft tissue techniques are more effective than METs on improving pain and function in planter fasciitis.