Abstract
Background: The existence of continuity between fascia and muscles that may be anatomically distant from each other is emphasized in the tensegrity principle. Despite evidence from in vitro studies, there is a dearth of literature concerning the in vivo behavior of these connections. Aim: To compare the effect of Static Stretching (SS) of hamstrings with remote Myofascial Release (MFR) (bilateral plantar fascia and suboccipital region) and a combination of SS and remote MFR on hamstring flexibility. The secondary aim of this study was to investigate the difference between therapist administered and self-administered interventions. Design: Three arm assessor-blinded Randomized Clinical Trial (RCT). Participants: Fifty-eight asymptomatic participants (16 Males; Mean age 22.69 ± 2.65 years). Method: Participants with tight hamstrings defined by a passive Knee Extension Angle (KEA) > 20° were included in the study and were assigned to one of the three groups. Group A (n = 19) was SS, group B (n = 20) was remote MFR, group C (n = 19) was a combination group who received both SS and remote MFR. Seven sessions of therapist administered intervention were delivered over a period of 10 days, which was followed by a 2-week self-administered home program. KEA and Sit and Reach Test (SRT) were used as outcomes and measurements were performed at baseline, end of the seventh session and after atwo-week follow-up. Results: The results demonstrated that hamstring flexibility improved in all three groups after therapist administered interventions (p < 0.05), whereas, group C demonstrated additional benefits. None of the groups showed a statistically significant (p > 0.05) change in the KEA with self-intervention. Conclusion: The findings of this study indicated that all three interventions were effective in improving hamstring flexibility in young asymptomatic individuals when performed by the therapist.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 832-837 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies |
Volume | 22 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 07-2018 |
All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes
- Complementary and Manual Therapy
- Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation
- Rehabilitation
- Complementary and alternative medicine