Effect of Matrix Rhythm Therapy on Subjects with Asymptomatic Hamstring Tightness: A Quasi-experimental Study

Abstract

Introduction: Hamstring tightness is a decreased range of motion at the knee with an associated feeling of restriction in the posterior thigh. The hamstrings are a group of muscles that control hip and knee joint mobility as well as pelvis and spine alignment. Because hamstring tightness impacts body posture and causes musculoskeletal pain, finding a new effective approach to restore hamstring flexibility is critical. Matrix rhythm therapy is a class IIA medical device that enhances an increase in microcirculation and tissue flexibility and elasticity. Aim: To determine the immediate effect of Matrix Rhythm Therapy (MaRhyThe©) on an individual with asymptomatic hamstring tightness between the age group of 18-25 years on an active knee extension test and ultrasonography. Materials and Methods: This quasi-experimental single session study was conducted in KAHER Institute of Physiotherapy (tertiary care hospital), Belagavi, Karnataka, India, from November 2020 to January 2021. A total of 63 people were screened for the study out of which 30 were included (17 Female and 13 Male) and were recruited using the Active Knee Extension (AKE) test and ultrasonographic assessment. The age criterion was 18-25 years. MaRhyThe© was given for only one session of 60 minutes on both legs (30 minutes on each leg). After the session, the immediate effect of the treatment was noted by comparing the active knee extension test of both legs and conducting the ultrasonographic assessment. The pretest and post-test scores were analysed using the Kolmogorov Smirnov test. Results: The results showed that there was a 41.39% reduction in the AKE of the right leg and a 42.40% reduction in the AKE on the left leg of the participants which was statistically significant. Post-intervention statistically significant differences were found in an increase in the length, blood flow, and decrease in thickness of the hamstring muscle (p-value ≤0.001) after a 60 minute session of MaRhyThe©. Conclusion: MaRhyThe©for 60 minutes duration (30 minutes each leg) produces beneficial effects such as improved tissue extensibility, increased blood microcirculation, and decreased tissue thickness in subjects with asymptomatic hamstring tightness.