Comparing Bowen Therapy and Tennis Ball Technique for Pain and Disability in Plantar Fasciitis Patients, A Randomized Controlled Trial

Plantar fasciitis is a musculoskeletal condition that causes pain and tenderness in theheel and the bottom of the foot. It develops when the plantar fascia, a strong fibroustissue that connects the heel bone to the toes, becomes irritated or overstretched due torepeated stress. The condition is commonly seen in individuals who spend long hoursstanding, athletes, overweight individuals, and people with improper foot posture orunsuitable footwear. Patients often complain of severe heel pain during the first fewsteps after waking up or after prolonged sitting. If not treated properly, the pain cangradually interfere with walking, work performance, physical activity, and overallquality of life.Different conservative treatment approaches are used to manage plantar fasciitis,including stretching exercises, manual therapy, massage techniques, strengtheningprograms, and pain‐relieving modalities. Among these approaches, Bowen Therapy and theTennis Ball Technique have gained attention because they are simple, non‐surgical, andcost‐effective methods that may help reduce pain and improve foot function.Bowen Therapy is a gentle hands‐on therapy that involves specific rolling movements overmuscles, tendons, and soft tissues. The technique is performed with pauses betweenmovements, allowing the body to respond naturally and promote relaxation and healing. Itis believed that Bowen Therapy helps improve blood circulation, reduce muscle tightness,decrease stress on the plantar fascia, and restore normal movement patterns. Because thetechnique is gentle and non‐invasive, it may be suitable for patients who cannot tolerateaggressive manual treatments.The Tennis Ball Technique is a self‐management approach commonly used for stretching andreleasing tension in the plantar fascia. In this method, a patient rolls a tennis ballunder the sole of the foot while applying controlled pressure. This movement provides amassage‐like effect that may help loosen tight tissues, improve flexibility, stimulatecirculation, and reduce discomfort in the heel area. The technique is easy to perform athome, requires minimal equipment, and can be incorporated into daily routines, making ita practical treatment option for many patients.The purpose of this study is to compare the effectiveness of Bowen Therapy and the TennisBall Technique in reducing pain and improving functional disability in individuals withplantar fasciitis. The research aims to evaluate which treatment method provides betteroutcomes in terms of pain relief, mobility, and the ability to perform daily activitiescomfortably. Understanding the comparative effects of these two interventions may helphealthcare professionals select more effective rehabilitation strategies and providepatients with accessible and beneficial treatment options for long‐term management ofplantar fasciitis.