Effectiveness of Trigger Point Treatment Techniques for Foot Pathologies: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Foot pathologies such as plantar fasciitis and hallux valgus significantly impact patients' quality of life causing pain and mobility limitations. This review explores the clinical application of trigger point treatment techniques, including manual therapy and dry needling, in addressing these conditions. A scoping review following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology was chosen to map the existing literature on trigger point treatments for foot pathologies and identify research gaps. Seven studies were included, evaluating dry needling, dry cupping, and local heating of trigger points. Some improvements in pain reduction and functionality were observed. For example, one study reported an effect size for pain reduction of 0.75 (95% CI: 0.50 to 1.00) with dry needling. Another study found a quality-of-life improvement effect size for percutaneous needle electrolysis at 52 weeks of 0.68 (95% CI: 0.34 to 1.02). Combining extracorporeal shock wave therapy with dry needling significantly improved Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scores and maximum painless walking distance in another study. While trigger point treatment techniques may offer potential benefits for managing foot pathologies, current evidence is insufficient to draw definitive conclusions. Larger sample sizes and longer-term follow-up studies are needed to strengthen the evidence base and explore safety aspects.