Effectiveness of using ultrasound therapy and manual therapy in the conservative treatment of calcaneal spur – pilot study

Abstract

Introduction: Calcaneal spur is a pathology of the fibrocartilage enthesis of the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia or a pathology of the mixed enthesis of the flexor digitorum brevis muscle. Ultrasound therapy is commonly applied in the conservative treatment of a calcaneal spur. Foot muscle strengthening exercises, stretching exercises and soft tissue therapy are indicated as effective methods of conservative treatment. The aim of the study was to compare and assess the effects of ultrasound therapy and selected techniques of manual therapy on pain level and functional state in patients with calcaneal spur.

Keywords

• enthesopathy
• plantar fascia
• physical therapy
• ultrasounds
• soft tissue therapy