Cognitive Training for Pain , Balance and Foot Function in Plantar Fasciitis
ConditionPlanter Fasciitis
Trial statusRecruiting
Trial phaseNot applicable
Trial typeInterventional
Biological sexAll
Age18-60
SponsorBeni-Suef University
About this trial
This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effects of cognitive training exercises versus stretching and strengthening exercises on pain, functional dilatability, and static balance. Participants will be assigned to two groups: a cognitive training group or a stretching and strengthening exercise group. The cognitive training group will perform exercises targeting cognitive and neuromuscular control plus stretching and strengthening exercise , while the control group will perform stretching and strengthing exercises only. Outcome measures will include pain intensity, foot functional disability , and static balance. The results of this study will provide evidence regarding the effectiveness of cognitive training with stretching and strengthing exercises compared to stretching and strengthIng only exercises in improving musculoskeletal function and balance.
Eligibility criteria
This trial does not accept healthy volunteersQualifiers
Adults aged 18 to 60 years. Clinically diagnosed with plantar fasciitis by a physician or physiotherapist. Experiencing heel pain for at least 4 weeks. Ability to stand and perform basic functional and balance tests. Willingness to participate and provide informed consent. Not currently receiving other structured physical therapy or cognitive training programs during the study period.
Disqualifiers
History of lower limb surgery or fractures affecting the foot or ankle. Presence of neurological disorders affecting balance or motor control (e.g., stroke, Parkinson's disease).
Trial design
Design model
Parallel
Treatments tested in this trial
cognitive training
BehavioralParticipants will receive a structured cognitive training program incorporating dual-task and task-oriented exercises. The intervention focuses on enhancing attention, motor planning, and sensorimotor integration during functional activities. Exercises are progressively advanced based on participant performance to improve postural control and functional stability.
stretching and strengthing exercises
BehavioralParticipants will perform a standardized stretching and strengthing program targeting the plantar fascia and associated lower limb muscles. The intervention consists of static stretching exercises aimed at improving tissue flexibility, reducing muscle tightness, and supporting pain reduction. Exercises will be performed in a controlled and consistent manner throughout the study period.
Treatment groups
80 Participants
are divided into 2 treatment groupsGroup A: Cognitive Training GroupExperimental treatment 2 interventions
Group B: stretching and strengthing exercisesExperimental treatment 1 intervention
Trial outcomes
Primary outcomes
1
Pain by VAS
Pain intensity will be assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), a 10 cm scale ranging from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst imaginable pain). Participants will be asked to rate their current level of heel pain.
Time frame
at baseline and post treatment (4 weeks)2
functional disability
Functional disability will be assessed using the Foot Function Index (FFI), which evaluates pain, disability, and activity limitation in individuals with foot disorders. Higher scores indicate greater disability.
Time frame
at baseline and post treatment (4 weeks)3
static balance
Static balance will be assessed using a standardized balance test (e.g., single-leg stance test). Participants will be evaluated based on their ability to maintain a stable posture for a specified duration under controlled conditions.
Time frame
at baseline and post treatment ( 4 weeks)Sponsors and contacts
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Source ClinicalTrials.gov