Effects of Hamstring Flossing on Balance and Foot Function in Female Patients with Plantar Fasciopathy: A Randomized Controlled Study

Introduction: A relationship between hamstring tightness and plantar fasciopathy (PF) has been reported. Hamstring flossing has been reported to improve hamstring flexibility; however, its effects on balance and foot function in patients with PF have not been investigated. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of a conventional physical therapy treatment protocol combined with hamstring flossing versus a conventional physical therapy treatment protocol alone on balance and foot function in patients with PF. Materials and Methods: Thirty patients with PF were randomly assigned to two groups: The study group (A) received hamstring flossing in addition to the conventional physical therapy treatment protocol, whereas patients in the control group (B) received only the conventional physical therapy treatment protocol. Foot function was evaluated using the foot function index (FFI), and the Biodex balance system (BBS) was used to assess the overall stability index (OSI). Outcomes were evaluated at baseline and three weeks after the intervention. The groups were compared using a two-way mixed-design multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA). Results: The post-test mean values of the FFI score and OSI were significantly higher than the pre-test values in both the flossing and control groups (P=0.001). No significant intergroup differences were observed for either variable post-treatment (P>0.05). Conclusion: The combination of conventional treatment for PF and hamstring flossing provided no additive benefit compared to conventional treatment alone in patients with PF.