Analysis of Hyperthermia as an Adjunctive Treatment to Evidence-based Clinical Intervention in Subjects With Plantar Fasciitis: a Double-blind Randomized Clinical Trial

This project aims to analyze the use of hyperthermia within a treatment protocol for plantar fasciitis, as well as to determine the difference between two and three sessions per week. Study participants will be divided into four intervention groups: the first will receive two sessions per week for a period of six months, while the second will receive three sessions per week for the same period. The treatment protocol will consist of therapeutic physical exercise focused on the foot muscles and stretching the plantar fascia and posterior chain, hyperthermia on the plantar fascia insertion area in the calcaneus and adjacent areas, and the use of an orthotic insole used for walking. The third and fourth intervention groups will receive the same treatment as mentioned above, but without hyperthermia. The third group will receive three sessions per week, while the second group will receive two sessions per week. Two different types of measurement variables will be used: objective variables will be used to measure local pain using an algometer, assess ankle joint range of motion, and use ultrasound imaging techniques. Subjective variables will also be used through validated questionnaires, which will address physical activity, perceived functional limitations in patients with lower limb pathologies, lower limb functional assessment, and a visual analogue scale for pain perception.