Evaluation of Cupping Therapy on morphology of gastrocnemius in patients with Plantarfasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a degenerative condition that leads to inflammation of the plantar fascia's root at the medial calcaneal tuberosity and the surrounding perifascial structures. It accounts for approximately 11% to 15% of foot-related medical visits and is responsible for around 10% of injuries among runners. The condition predominantly affects active individuals between the ages of 25 and 65, making up 83% of cases, and an estimated 10% of the general population is also affected. In about one-third of cases, it presents bilaterally. As the leading cause of chronic heel pain in adults, plantar fasciitis impacts both physically active young individuals and older sedentary populations. It is often associated with gastrocnemius muscle tightness and results from repetitive stress on the plantar fascia at its attachment to the medial tubercle of the calcaneus. Previous research has utilized ultrasonography to assess gastrocnemius muscle thickness and cross-sectional area in individuals with and without plantar fasciitis. However, no studies have specifically investigated the impact of cupping therapy on gastrocnemius muscle thickness and cross-sectional area in patients with plantar fasciitis. Since muscle composition and quality assessment can aid in physiotherapy diagnosis and treatment monitoring, this study aims to address this research gap by evaluating the effects of cupping therapy on the cross-sectional area of the gastrocnemius muscle in individuals with plantar fasciitis.