Effect of Bowens, Cyriax and Modified Graston Technique for Reduced Ankle Dorsiflexion in Subjects with Heel Pain-Randomized Clinical Trial

Anish Mandrekar

Abstract: Heel pain, often rooted in plantar fasciitis, continues to affect a significant number of middle-aged adults, particularly women and individuals with higher BMI. In my view, this condition, while frequently overlooked, has a profound effect on mobility and daily life. This randomized controlled trial offers a comparative snapshot of three manual therapy techniques-Bowen, Cyriax, and Modified Graston-in conjunction with standard conservative care, aimed at alleviating pain and improving ankle mobility. The study involved 36 participants equally divided into three intervention groups. While all groups showed measurable improvements in pain levels, range of motion, and functional indices post-treatment, subtle differences emerged in their efficacy. It is evident that each technique operates through distinct physiological pathways-be it fascia release in Bowen, deep tissue realignment in Cyriax, or microtrauma-induced regeneration in Graston. That said, the absence of long-term follow-up raises questions about the sustainability of these outcomes. What stands out most is the nuanced interplay between traditional therapeutic interventions and newer soft tissue mobilization techniques, suggesting a growing need for more integrative rehabilitation protocols. Taking this further, future research could benefit from imaging diagnostics and extended timelines to verify carryover effects. This suggests that while no single therapy emerged as dominantly superior, all three hold meaningful potential in clinical practice when addressing plantar fasciitis-related heel pain.

Keywords: Heel pain, Plantar fasciitis, Bowen therapy, Cyriax massage, Graston technique

How to Cite?: Anish Mandrekar, "Effect of Bowens, Cyriax and Modified Graston Technique for Reduced Ankle Dorsiflexion in Subjects with Heel Pain-Randomized Clinical Trial", Volume 14 Issue 7, July 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 385-387, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25704230800, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25704230800