Comparative Efficacy of Ice Packs Versus Cold Baths With Standard Exercise Therapy in the Management of Plantar Fasciitis
This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effectiveness of ice pack therapy and cold bath immersion when combined with standard exercise therapy in adults with plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain that can limit daily activities and reduce quality of life. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either ice pack therapy or cold bath therapy in addition to the same standardized exercise program. The primary outcome will be pain intensity measured using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and the secondary outcome will be foot function measured using the Foot Function Index (FFI). The findings of this study may help identify the more effective cryotherapy method for reducing pain and improving function in individuals with plantar fasciitis.
• Adults aged 18 to 65 years.
• Clinical diagnosis of unilateral or bilateral Plantar Fasciitis.
• Heel pain localized to the medial calcaneal tubercle.
• Positive Windlass test.
• Pain intensity of ≥4 on the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) at baseline.
• Willing and able to provide written informed consent.
• Willing to comply with the study protocol and attend all treatment and assessment sessions.