Effects of two different stretching techniques on proprioception and hamstring flexibility: a pilot study.

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to compare the immediate and long-term effect of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF)contract-relax-antagonist-contract(CRAC) exercises versus static stretchingon proprioception and flexibility in males with hamstring shortness. Patients& methods: Knee extension angle test was used to measure flexibility and isokinetic dynamometer to evaluate proprioception. Assessments were evaluated at baseline, after first exercise and eighthweek. The hamstring stretching was applied 3days a weekfor 8weeks. Results: Flexibility and position sense were similar in the immediate and long term (p>0.05). However, the motion sense increased significantly in long term within the PNF CRAC group (p=0.02). Conclusion: Both stretching exercises are effective for improving flexibility. Moreover, PNF CRAC improved motion sense more than static stretching in the long term. Clinical trial registration number: NCT04026646.