Abstract
Background: This study compared the effects of stretching versus strengthening exercises on pain levels and static and dynamic balance among collegiate athletes with knee injuries. Methods: A quasi-experimental pre–post study design was employed involving 20 athletes mean age of 22.65 ± 1.18 years from a university, divided into stretching exercise group (n = 10) and strengthening exercise group (n = 10). Both groups completed 4 weeks of exercises, 3 times per week, with intensity adjusted based on progress. Outcome measures included pain levels and static and dynamic balance assessed using Visual Analog Scale, Stork Stand Test, and Y-Balance Test, respectively. Results: Within-group analysis showed that there was improvement for both groups (P < 0.05). Stretching exercise has been found to improve pain (−20.75%), static balance (16.89%) anterior dynamic balance (32.03%), posteromedial (PM) dynamic balance (29.50%), and posterolateral (PL) dynamic balance (17.96%). Conversely, strengthening exercise has been found to improve pain (−26.09%), static balance (11.22%), anterior dynamic balance (18.07%), PM dynamic balance (14.04%), and PL dynamic balance (11.51%). However, the between-group analysis showed no significant differences between both groups (P > 0.05). Conclusion: This suggests both exercises are effective in alleviating pain and improving static and dynamic balance. Therefore, incorporating both exercises into rehabilitation programs may benefit athletes with knee injuries.
Published Version
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