The influence of self-stretch based on post-isometric relaxation, static stretch combined with stabilization exercises and stabilization exercises only on hamstring, one-joint and two-joints hip flexors flexibility and finger-to-floor test results

Abstract

Methods 94 children (46 boys and 48 girls) aged 10-13 years (11.5 ±0.5), were randomly divided into 3 groups. Each group underwent a 6-week therapeutic programme aiming to correct muscles flexibility. The first group-GI (31 children) realized the programme of post isometric muscle relaxation (PIR), the second one-GII (31 children) performed static stretching with stabilization exercises, the third group-GIII (32 children) realized only stabilization exercises. The shortening of hamstring, one-joint and two-joint hip flexors was assessed clinically according to Kendall. The straight leg raise (SLR test) angle and the popliteal angle were measured for hamstrings, the angle in sagittal plane in hip for one-joint and the knee flexion was measured for twojoint hip flexors. Fingertips-to-floor distance (FTF test) in trunk flexion was also noted. The examination was conducted twice – before therapy and a week after its completion, by the blinded observers.