Exploring the effect of muscle energy technique on hamstring tightness in planter fasciitis patient - A Case study

Riya Jain

doi:10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i01.67065

Exploring the effect of muscle energy technique on hamstring tightness in planter fasciitis patient - A Case study

Author(s)	Dr. Riya Jain
Country	India
Abstract	ABSTRACT Background: Plantar fasciitis (PF) is a common cause of heel pain and is often associated with alterations in the lower limbs' biomechanics. According to recent research, hamstring tightness may put more strain on the plantar fascia via the posterior kinetic chain. The Muscle Energy Technique (MET), an active manual therapy that aims to improve neuromuscular control and muscle flexibility, may be useful in treating posterior kinetic chain tightness. Nevertheless, there is still no research on the application of MET to hamstring tightness in the treatment of plantar fasciitis. Presentation of a Case: A 46-year-old male OT technician arrived with a 4-month history of left posterior heel pain, morning stiffness, and difficulty walking, which was exacerbated by prolonged standing. The clinical results indicate that the Windlass test was positive, ankle dorsiflexion was decreased, dorsiflexor strength was decreased, and hamstring and calf tightness was present. On the heel X-ray, a spur was also visible in the calcaneal area. The Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) was used to measure pain, the Foot Function Index (FFI) was used to measure function, and the Manual Muscle Testing (MMT) and goniometry were used to measure strength and mobility.Intervention: A two-week physiotherapy program was implemented, encompassing icing, therapeutic ultrasound, stretching and strengthening exercises for the foot and calf, and MET targeting the hamstring muscle, accompanied by a home exercise regimen. Results: Ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (10° to 16°), dorsiflexor strength (MMT: 3/5 to 5/5), function (FFI: 46% to 20%), and pain (NPRS: 6/10 to 3/10) all significantly improved after the intervention. Conclusion- this case study suggests that incorporating MET for hamstring tightness into an all-encompassing physiotherapy program may reduce pain, improve ankle strength and mobility, and improve functional outcomes for people with plantar fasciitis. In addition to standard treatment for plantar fasciitis, addressing proximal kinetic chain dysfunctions may be beneficial. To confirm these results, more controlled studies with bigger sample sizes are required.
Keywords	Key words: muscle energy technique, kinetic chain, hamstring tightness, and planter fasciitis
Field	Medical / Pharmacy
Published In	Volume 8, Issue 1, January-February 2026
Published On	2026-01-22
DOI	https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i01.67065

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Exploring the effect of muscle energy technique on hamstring tightness in planter fasciitis patient - A Case study

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