Self-Myofascial Release Plus Exercise Versus Exercise Alone in Type 2 Diabetes
The Effect of the Addition of Myofascial Release to Exercise Program on Foot Function, Physical Performance, and Plantar Fascia Thickness in Individuals With Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Izmir Katip Celebi University
40 participants
Nov 3, 2025
INTERVENTIONAL
Conditions
Summary
This randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the effects of adding self-myofascial release applied to the plantar fascia and gastrosoleus muscles to an exercise program on foot function, physical performance, and plantar fascia thickness in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Participants aged 30 to 65 years with controlled type 2 diabetes will be randomly allocated to either an exercise-only group or an exercise plus self-myofascial release group. Both groups will complete an eight-week supervised exercise program three times per week. The intervention group will additionally perform self-myofascial release using a foam roller before exercise sessions. Outcomes will include foot function, balance, functional mobility, gait performance, and plantar fascia thickness assessed by ultrasonography before and after the intervention.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria4
- Individuals aged 30 to 65 years
- Diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus for at least 1 year
- Controlled type 2 diabetes mellitus
- Able to ambulate independently without assistive devices
Exclusion Criteria12
- Severe pes planus or pes cavus defined by the Foot Posture Index-6 (FPI-6) (score ≥ +10 or ≤ -5)
- History of plantar fasciitis
- Plantar fascia ulceration
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Diagnosed peripheral vascular disease
- History of lower extremity surgery or fracture during last year
- Rheumatologic or connective tissue disorders affecting soft tissue properties
- Neurological or diagnosed cognitive disorders
- Pregnancy
- Other types of diabetes mellitus
- Obesity (BMI > 30 kg/m²)
- Serious cardiopulmonary disorders, including heart failure, history of myocardial infarction, or severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or asthma
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Interventions
An 8-week supervised strengthening and stretching program performed three times weekly, with advice to perform at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity walking.
Self-myofascial release applied to the plantar fascia and gastrosoleus muscles using a foam roller three times per week for eight weeks before exercise sessions.
Locations(1)
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NCT07414914