Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization – A Novel Tool for the Physical Therapy Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis: A Case Report

Background and Purpose: Plantar fasciitis is the most common foot condition in the U.S. yet consensus has never been reached on the best treatment interventions. Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) is a novel intervention that applies general soft tissue mobilization principles with the use of a tool. Favorable responses have been achieved in a number of other conditions. However, only one other case series regarding the treatment of PF with IASTM exists. The purpose of this case report is to describe the effectiveness of IASTM, in conjunction with an exercise program, as an intervention for the treatment of a 48-year-old male with plantar fasciitis who had not responded to any prior interventions. Case Description: The patient was a 48-year-old male and an active duty Coast Guardsman. He presented to physical therapy with a 3-month history of plantar fasciitis after trying numerous other interventions, including 4 sessions of physical therapy, without success. Outcomes: The patient was treated with IASTM to the plantar surface of the foot along with a therapeutic exercise program for 11 visits. He achieved immediate pain relief in one session and by discharge, subjective pain reports, self-reported functional ability, Foot and Ankle Ability Measure scores had all improved significantly. Discussion: The combined use of IASTM and a therapeutic exercise program was effective in improving the patient’s functional status and pain levels. Future research is necessary on a larger scale to confirm these findings and address the current gap in the literature. However, these findings are consistent with what little research is currently available