Immediate Effects of Intermittent Bilateral Ankle Plantar Flexors Static Stretching on Balance and Plantar Pressures

Abstract

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to analyze the immediate effects of an intermittent plantar flexion static-stretching protocol on balance and plantar pressures. MethodsThe study included a sample size of 24 healthy participants (21 female and 3 male). Participants were 32.20 ± 8.08 years, 166.20 ± 8.43 cm, and 62.77 ± 9.52 kg. All participants performed an intermittent plantar flexion static-stretching protocol. Five sets (60 seconds intermittent stretch; 15 seconds for the rest time) of a passive plantar flexor stretching (70% to 90% of the point of discomfort) were performed. Static footprint analysis and a stabilometry analysis were performed before and after stretching. A P value < .05 with a CI of 95% was considered statistically significant for all tests. ResultsIntermittent ankle plantar static stretching resulted in a significantly greater forefoot surface contact area and lower rear foot medium and maximum plantar pressures. In addition, static stretching caused a lower displacement of the center of pressure for both eyes open and eyes closed conditions. ConclusionAn intermittent plantar flexor static-stretching protocol improved balance and reduced rear foot plantar pressures (maximum and medium pressures).