Randomised observer-blind controlled clinical trial of the effect of static stretching versus static stretching with self-myofascial release on hamstring flexibility
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Date
2021-11
Authors
Vos, Madeline
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Publisher
University of the Free State
Abstract
Introduction: Flexibility is an important component in everyday life, especially for athletes. Flexibility is related to improved quality of life, better performance and reduced risk of injuries, and better functionality are associated with improved ROM. Static stretching (SS) is one of the most frequently used mechanisms with self-myofascial release (SMR) being a newly implemented mechanism. Both these interventions are seen as an effective way of flexibility improvements, each with their own set of downfalls. Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of SS alone versus SMR + SS on hamstring flexibility. To assess the difference, SS alone and SMR + SS were evaluated over a 4-week period.Methods: This was a randomized control study. Fifty-six (56) male high-performance athletes from the University of the Free State were recruited and were randomly assigned into the two intervention groups, 28 participants in group one who represented SS and 28 participants in group two who represented SMR + SS. Data collection took place over a period of one month, with three data collections taking place. Outcome measures for this study were hamstring flexibility, which was assessed with an active knee extension (AKE) test and a straight-leg raise test (SLR). The two groups received three sets of one-minute stretching and/or foam rolling with 30-second rests for at least 3 days out of a 7-day week. Results: Both groups showed improvement in both AKE and SLR when comparing Week 0 to Week 4. However, the improvement seen when comparing SS alone versus SMR + SS was the same; the only exception was the pace at which improvement was seen at Week 2 and Week 4. Improvement at Week 2 was at a faster pace for both interventions than that of Week 4. When comparing the sport codes with one another, all showed improvements with both interventions; one intervention was not superior to another. Conclusion: The results of this study show that the addition of SMR before SS does not show a significant improvement in hamstring flexibility than that of SS alone. Actually, SMR + SS improved hamstring flexibility quicker than SS only when analysing Week 2 versus Week 4.
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Dissertation (M.A. (Human Movement Sciences))--University of the Free State, 2021, SMR + SS, Sport medicine rehabilitation, Risk strain injuries, ROM (Range of motion)