ABSTRACT

Introduction: Plantar fasciitis is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition commonly seen in professionals with prolonged standing postures, such as school teachers. Tightness in the calf muscles is a key contributing factor, leading to increased strain on the plantar fascia. Post-Isometric Relaxation (PIR), a form of Muscle Energy Technique, aims to reduce muscle tightness through a sequence of isometric contraction followed by passive stretching. This pilot study investigates the efficacy of PIR in reducing bilateral calf tightness and pain in school teachers with plantar fasciitis. Materials and Methodology: A total of 30 school teachers diagnosed with plantar fasciitis and bilateral calf tightness were recruited for this pilot study. Participants underwent a PIR intervention targeting the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles over a period of 2 weeks. Outcome measures included the Dorsiflexion Lunge Test to assess calf flexibility and the Numerical Pain Rating Scale to evaluate pain levels. Pre- and post-intervention scores were recorded and analyzed. Result: A paired t test was used for statistical analysis (CI 95%, p < 0.05). Data was collected at baseline and after two weeks of intervention. Conclusion: Post-Isometric Relaxation appears to be a promising therapeutic approach in reducing calf muscle tightness and pain in school teachers with plantar fasciitis. This study supports the need for further research with a larger sample size to establish the clinical effectiveness of PIR. Keywords: Post-isometric relaxation, NPRS, flexibility, plantar fasciitis, tightness
Publication date: 01/07/2026

https://www.ijbpas.com/pdf/2026/July/MS_IJBPAS_2026_10354.pdf

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https://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2026/15.7.10354