Improve Muscle Flexibility Research Articles

Comparison of muscle tightness between knees in individuals with unilateral osteoarthritis and its relationship with pain and function.

Unilateral osteoarthritis (OA) affects single knees and presents a unique scenario where individuals experience varying degrees of symptoms between their affected and unaffected knees. This study aims to investigate differences in muscle tightness between symptomatic and asymptomatic knees in individuals with unilateral knee OA while exploring the interplay among pain, functionality, and muscle tightness. In this cross-sectional study, thirty knee OA patients underwent assessments for hamstring (Active Knee Extension, Straight Leg Raise), iliotibial band (Ober Test), and quadriceps tightness (Modified Thomas Test). Pain intensity was measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and functional limitations were evaluated via the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). A negative correlation was observed between participants' pain and AKE (p= 0.004, r=-0.515), ASLR (p= 0.27, r=-0.403), Ober (p= 0.010, r=-0.461) values. However, no significant correlation was found with the Modified Thomas value (p= 0.204, r=-0.239). There was also a negative correlation between participants' WOMAC scores and AKE (p= 0.019, r=-0.427), OBER (p= 0.004, r=-0.510), and Modified Thomas (p= 0.022, r=-0.416) values, while ASLR (p= 0.286, r=-0.202) values showed no significant correlation. Comparisons between AKE, Ober, and Modified Thomas values showed higher values in asymptomatic extremities (AKE: p= 0.025, Ober: p= 0.021, Modified Thomas: p= 0.030). This study emphasizes the significance of muscle tightness in the symptomatic extremities of individuals with unilateral knee OA. The results indicate that increased muscle tightness makes pain worse and limits movement. It's crucial for healthcare providers treating OA to focus on improving muscle flexibility, reducing pain, and enhancing overall function.

The potential mechanisms of tissue flossing with Flossband application around the joints or soft tissues: A theoretical framework

Flossband application in rehabilitation and sports medicine has been demonstrated to increase flexibility, improve muscle strength, dampen pain, and reduce inflammation. However, scarce evidence has presented the latent mechanisms that explain the beneficial effects of Flossband application. To fill the knowledge gap about the Flossband wrapping mechanisms and Flossband application mastering, an initial theoretical framework delineating the advantages of Flossband application mechanisms is needed. Therefore, based on the current evidence, this paper aims to summarize the potential mechanisms of the Flossband application benefits. The primary speculated mechanisms, “Pain Gate”, “Fascia Glide”, “Sponge Effect”, “Soft Tissue Ischemia”, and “Joint Effect” were proposed to illustrate how Flossband application works on soft tissues or joints to reduce pain, release fascia tension, improve muscle flexibility, decrease inflammation, and enhance muscle activation. The benefits derived from the Flossband application may be more effectively elucidated through the interaction of the five primary mechanisms mentioned above, whether applied to soft tissues or joints rather than relying on a singular mechanism. This consideration acknowledges the complexity and interactivity inherent in the Flossband application.

Effectiveness of Active Releasing Technique Vs Mulligan Bent Leg Raise for Footballers with Hamstring Tightness

BACKGROUND: Hamstring tightness is common among football players, which frequently results in hamstring injuries. Although the exact cause of hamstring tightness is unknown, decreased hamstring extensibility may play a role. Stretching techniques of various types have been used to improve muscle flexibility in rehabilitation and sports. Passive stretching is one of the most commonly used methods, and the recent addition of other techniques such as ballistic stretching, Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) techniques with variants have been effective. The current study aimed to compare the effects of Active releasing technique and Mulligan bent leg raise in footballers with hamstring tightness. AIM AND OBJECTIVE: To determine the effectiveness of Active releasing technique and Mulligan bent leg raise in reducing hamstring tightness among football players. METHOD: STUDY DESIGN: Experimental study. SAMPLING TECHNIQUE: Convenient Sampling technique. SAMPLE SIZE: 20 FOOTBALL PLAYERS. RESULT: The values were statistically analysed using paired ‘t-test and the Unpaired ‘t-test. The statistical analysis made with the quantitative data revealed a statistically significant difference between Group A and Group B and also within the group. The post-test mean value of sit and reach flexibility test of group A was 29.40 and group B was 28.50. This showed that the treatment given for group A is comparatively more effective than group B. CONCLUSION:This study shows that there was an improvement in hamstring flexibility in Active release technique as well as Mulligan bent leg raise among footballers with hamstring tightness. However, Active release technique is better as compared to Mulligan bent leg raise technique to improve hamstring flexibility and range of motion in footballers. KEYWORDS: Hamstring tightness, Active release technique, Mulligan bent leg raise, Footballers.

Analysis of the relationship between hamstring flexibility with muscular strength and its response to myofascial release

Background: Decreased flexibility can contribute to postural changes, the deficit in the ability to produce strength, and predispose to injuries. Currently, several myofascial release techniques work to improve muscle flexibility. Objective: To analyze the relationship between flexibility and muscle strength of the knee flexors and to verify the acute effect of two modalities of myofascial release on the flexibility of the hamstrings. Methods: 45 women participated in this study, divided into Manual Release Group, Instrumental Release Group, and Control Group. A sit and reach test, a third finger floor test, an assessment of the popliteal angle, and an assessment of knee flexion muscle strength were performed. Subsequently, the volunteers received a myofascial release session in the hamstring muscle group. After treatment, the volunteers were reassessed. Results: Both groups that received myofascial release performed better in flexibility tests. There was no correlation between hamstring flexibility and the ability to produce joint torque from knee flexion. Conclusion: The flexibility of the hamstring muscles did not influence the ability to produce knee flexion torque and both myofascial release techniques were effective in improving the flexibility of this musculature.

The Influence of Self-Myofascial Release on Muscle Flexibility in Long-Distance Runners.

During long-distance running, athletes are exposed to repetitive loads. Myofascial structures are liable to long-term work, which may cause cumulating tension within them. The aim of this study was to evaluate the acute effect of self-myofascial release on muscle flexibility in long-distance runners. The study comprised 62 long-distance, recreationally running participants between the age of 20 and 45 years. The runners were randomly divided into two groups: Group 1 (n = 32), in which subjects applied the self-myofascial release technique between baseline and the second measurement of muscle flexibility, and Group 2 (n = 30), without any intervention. The self-myofascial release technique was performed according to standardized foam rolling. Assessment of muscle flexibility was conducted according to Chaitow’s proposal. After application of the self-myofascial release technique, higher values were noted for the measurements of the following muscles: piriformis, tensor fasciae latae muscles and adductor muscles. Within the iliopsoas and rectus femoris muscles, lower values were observed in the second measurement. These changes were statistically significant (p < 0.05) within the majority of muscles. All these outcomes indicate improvement related to larger muscle flexibility and also, an increase in range of motion. In the control group (Group 2), significant improvement was observed only in measurements for the iliopsoas muscles. The single application of self-myofascial release techniques with foam rollers may significantly improve muscle flexibility in long-distance runners. Based on these results, the authors recommend the self-myofascial release technique with foam rollers be incorporated in the daily training routine of long-distance runners, as well as athletes of other sport disciplines.

Comparison of 90-90 passive hamstring stretching technique plus knee to chest position with 90-90 passive hamstring stretching alone in normal healthy individuals of age 18 to 25 years

Hamstring flexibility plays an important role in physical fitness. Hamstring tightness is determined by knee extension deficit. Passive stretching is simple and found effective to improve muscle flexibility. In clinical settings, 90-90 passive stretching test is used whereas knee to chest position stretches proximal ends of hamstrings which leads to isolated hip flexion and causes all three muscles tendons of hamstrings to lengthen to a greater degree because lever arms are larger at the hip. The present study hypothesized that stretching both proximal and distal ends of hamstrings will be more effective than stretching distal end in full range alone. Therefore present study determines whether adding component like knee to chest position to 90-90 passive hamstring stretch enhances the flexibility. Total 200 young healthy individuals (100 Males, 100 Females) of age 18 to 25 years participated in study. Individuals with bilateral hamstring tightness (>20 degrees) were included. Randomly, on one side passive 90-90 stretching technique was applied (60 seconds)and on other side 90-90 passive hamstring technique (30 seconds) plus knee to chest passive stretch (30 seconds) was applied and compared between both genders. Active knee extension test was used as an outcome measure for calculating hamstring tightness angle. Stastically unpaired t- test was used for comparison between tests. Results showed highly significant increase (p=0.0005) in knee extension range of motion with 90-90 passive hamstring stretch plus knee to chest position than 90-90 hamstring stretch alone. Hence, 90-90 passive hamstring stretching technique plus knee to chest position found more effective in hamstring flexibility than 90-90 passive hamstring stretch alone. Keywords: Hamstrings stretching, Flexibility, 90-90 Hamstrings test, Knee to chest position, Active knee extension test.

Impact of Short Foot Muscle Exercises on Quality of Movement and Flexibility in Amateur Runners.

The flexibility and proper functioning of all myofascial chains are crucial for athletes, especially for long-distance runners. Due to the continuity of the myofascial structures, restrictions in one part of the body may cause excessive tension in others. The aim of our study was to evaluate the influence of short foot muscle exercises on muscle flexibility and the quality of movement patterns in amateur runners. Eighty long-distance runners, aged 20–45, were randomly divided into two groups: Group 1 (n = 48) and Group 2 (n = 32). Participants in Group 1 performed foot exercises daily for six weeks. Subjects in Group 2 were without any intervention. At baseline and after six weeks, the quality of movement patterns with the Functional Movement Screen and muscle flexibility was evaluated. In Group 1, significantly higher Functional Movement Screen values in individual tasks and in the total score were noted after six weeks. The total score increased from 17 to 18 points (Median (Me) ± half of interquartile range (IQR/2) (Standard Error of Measurement - SEM) 17 ± 1.5 (0.23) at baseline and 18 ± 1.5 (0.24) after six weeks) (p < 0.01), whereas in Group 2, its level remained at 16 points (Me ± IQR/2 (SEM) 16 ± 1.5 (0.31) at baseline and 16 ± 1.25 (0.31) after six weeks). In Group 1, the significant improvement in muscle flexibility was noted (e.g., results for external rotation muscles: (Mean ± SD (SEM) 60.3 ± 0.4 (1.50) at baseline and 62.4 ± 10.3 (1.49) after six weeks) (p = 0.005). In Group 2, significant improvement was observed only for one task in the Active straight leg raise test (p = 0.005 and 0.02). During the measurement of external rotation muscles, a significant decrease in flexibility was observed (Mean ± SD (SEM) 60.1 ± 9.0 (1.60) at baseline and 58.0 ± 8.5 (1.51) after six weeks) (p = 0.001). Plantar short foot muscle exercises may improve muscle flexibility in the upper parts of the body within myofascial chains and influence the quality of fundamental movement patterns. Such exercises may be beneficial for all physically active people and can be performed as part of overall fitness programmes. Moreover, including such exercises in daily training routines of long-distance runners, as well as by athletes in other sport disciplines is also recommended.

Effect of Pnf Stretching on Proprioception and Physical Function in Individual with Knee Osteoarthritis: An Experimental Study

Background: Osteoarthritis of the knee leads to pain, difficulty in joint, reduced ROM and impaired Proprioceptive accuracy. PNF stretching are used to improve muscle flexibility, pain, ROM. Recently, impaired Proprioceptive accuracy of the knee has been proposed as a local factor in the onset and progression of radiographic knee OA.PNF technique is specifically designed to stimulate mechanoreceptors and Literature show significant effect of static as well as PNF stretching on clinical symptoms of OA knee, but impaired Proprioception is yet not so focused. Aim: Aim of the study was to find out the effect of PNF stretching on Proprioception and Physical Function in patients with knee osteoarthritis. Methodology: 50 participants were Selected according to selection criteria and randomly divided into PNF and Control Group. in which Outcome Measure for Proprioception by Absolute Angle error with use of universal Goniometer and Physical Function by Gujarati Version of WOMAC(mWOMAC)Results and Discussion: The result of the present study shows significant improvement found in the PNF group with p value &lt;0.05 for Proprioception and Physical function. Conclusion: Here the study concluded that PNF stretching is statistically and clinically shows significantly effective in Proprioception as well as physical function in OA knee patients. So it can be useful in clinical rehabilitation protocol.

Effect of Capacitive and Resistive electric transfer on changes in muscle flexibility and lumbopelvic alignment after fatiguing exercise.

[Purpose] This study aimed to clarify the effects of Capacitive and Resistive electric transfer (CRet) on changes in muscle flexibility and lumbopelvic alignment after fatiguing exercise. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty-two healthy males were assigned into either the CRet (n=11) or control (n=11) group. Fatiguing exercise and CRet intervention were applied at the quadriceps muscle of the participants’ dominant legs. The Ely test, pelvic tilt, lumbar lordosis, and superficial temperature were measured before and after exercise and for 30 minutes after intervention. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance, with Tukey’s post-hoc multiple comparison test to clarify within-group changes and Student’s t-test to clarify between-group differences. [Results] The Ely test and pelvic tilt were significantly different in both groups after exercise, but there was no difference in the CRet group after intervention. Superficial temperature significantly increased in the CRet group for 30 minutes after intervention, in contrast to after the exercise and intervention in the control group. There was no significant between-group difference at any timepoint, except in superficial temperature. [Conclusion] CRet could effectively improve muscle flexibility and lumbopelvic alignment after fatiguing exercise.

A Comparative Study of Optimal Stretch Intensity For Flexibility of Hamstrings; Hand Held Dynamometer and Verbal Rating Scale

Background: To improve muscle flexibility, static stretch is the most common type and is considered safe and effective for improving overall flexibility of muscles. During the stretch, the intensity is more likely to be determined by the degree of an athlete’s pain and practitioner’s skills rather than quantitative measures of stretch. It is necessary to determine the optimal intensity for the stretch. Objects: The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between hand held dynamometer (HHD) and verbal rating scale (VRS) in comparison of the effects of continuance time on active (walking) and inactive (sitting) movement after static stretch. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample (n=62) recruited from a university. Participants were randomly assigned to 2 different groups (n=31 for each group) based on participants’ positions either remaining in sitting or freely walking around for a series of re-assessments. Data was collected at pre-warm up, pre-stretch, post-stretch, and additional assessments at the time of 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 20 and 30 minutes after the stretch. Results: Relationship between VRS and HHD scores represents very weak correlation (Spearman’s p=-.16, p>.05). Pearson’s correlation analysis was conducted following the logarithmic transformation of the two scores. Pearson’s correlation after the transformation still showed a very low relationship and a poor linear relationship between the two scores (Pearson’s r=-.18, p>.05). Conclusion: The optimal intensity for stretch cannot be solely determined by the subjective pain perception. The objective measurement such as HHD could be used in conjunction with the pain perception.

To compare effectiveness of mulligan bent leg raise versus myofacial release in physiotherapy students with hamstring tightness

Various stretching technique have been used to improve muscle flexibility in rehabilitation and sports .Mechanisms involving the efficacy of a stretching technique were studied and certain conclusions indicate one technique better than the other. The aim of the present study was to measure hamstring flexibility after giving Myofacial Release Technique (MFR) and Mulligan Bent Leg Raise (BLR) and comparing the effects between the two techniques. A study was conducted among 30 asymptomatic physiotherapy students ranging from 18 – 25year of age with bilateral hamstring tightness and were randomized to one of the two groups- Myofacial Release Technique (n=15) and Bent Leg Raise Technique (n=15).Hamstring Flexibility was measured using Sit And Reach Test before the treatment after a week of treatment and follow up at the end of 2nd week. Analysis revealed that both Myofacial Release Technique and Mulligan Bent Leg Raise Technique has improved hamstring flexibility bilaterally, but Mulligan Bent Leg Raise Technique was more effective than Myofacial Release Technique as there was significant increase in flexibility after giving Mulligan Bent Leg Raise Technique.

Effect of Capacitive and Resistive Electric Transfer on Tissue Temperature, Muscle Flexibility, and Blood Circulation

Introduction: The differences between Capacitive and Resistive electric transfer (CRet) and hot pack (HP) in their effects on tissue temperature, muscle flexibility, and blood circulation are unknown. This study aimed to clarify the effect of CRet and HP on tissue temperature, muscle flexibility, and blood circulation. Methods: The participants were 13 healthy adults. They randomly performed three 15-minute interventions: (1) CRet, (2) HP, and (3) without powered CRet (sham). The intervention and measurement were applied to the right hamstring muscle. INDIBA® activ ProRecovery HCR902 was used in the CRet trial. The moist heat method was used in the HP trial. The measurement indexes were superficial temperature (ST), 10-mm deep temperature (DT), and 20-mm DT; the passive straight leg raise (SLR) test; and oxygenated (oxy), deoxygenated (deoxy), and total (total) hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations. Each index was measured for 30 minutes after the intervention and the amount of change (Δ) from the pre-intervention value was calculated. Results: ΔST, Δ10 mmDT, Δ20 mmDT, Δoxy-Hb, and Δtotal-Hb were significantly higher in the CRet and HP trials than in the sham trial for 30 minutes after the intervention (p<0.05). ΔSLR was significantly higher in the CRet trial than in the HP trial from 15 to 30 minutes after the intervention (p<0.01) Conclusion: Our results indicate that CRet is an efficient method for preventing and treating musculoskeletal injuries and improve muscle flexibility. In addition, it can improve blood circulation as well as HP can.

Effect of self-myofascial release on myofascial pain, muscle flexibility, and strength: A narrative review

BackgroundNumerous techniques have been employed to treat myofascial pain syndrome. Self-myofascial release (SMFR) is a relatively new technique of soft tissue mobilization. The simplicity and portability of the SMFR tools allow it to be easily implemented in any type of fitness or rehabilitation program. It is an active method and can be used by anyone at home or at the workplace. ObjectiveTo review the current methods of SMFR, their mechanisms, and efficacy in treating myofascial pain, improving muscle flexibility and strength. MethodsPubMed, Google Scholar, and PEDro databases were searched without search limitations from inception until July 2016 for terms relating to SMFR. Results and conclusionsDuring the past decade, therapists and fitness professionals have implemented SMFR mainly via foam rolling as a recovery or maintenance tool. Researchers observed a significant increase in the joint range of motion after using the SMFR technique and no decrease in muscle force or changes in performance after treatment with SMFR. SMFR has been widely used by health-care professionals in treating myofascial pain. However, we found no clinical trials which evaluated the influence of SMFR on myofascial pain. There is an acute need for these trials to evaluate the efficacy and effectiveness of SMFR in the treatment of the myofascial syndrome.

Differences in personal and lifestyle characteristics among Zimbabwean high school adolescents with and without recurrent non-specific low back pain: a two part cross-sectional study.

BackgroundRecurrent non-specific low back pain (NSLBP) is increasingly becoming common among adolescents worldwide. A recent study in Zimbabwe showed a relatively high prevalence (28.8 %) among high school students. Influential associated factors, however, remain unclear. This is a significant shortcoming. The aim was to determine personal or lifestyle-related factors associated with recurrent NSLBP among high school adolescents in Harare, Zimbabwe.MethodsThis study was part of a large epidemiological study conducted in two continuous parts. Part one sought to determine self-reported associated factors among 532 participants (mean age =16 ± 1.72 years) drawn randomly from selected government schools using a reliable and content-validated questionnaire (Kappa coefficient, k = 0.32–1). Part two purposively identified adolescents (N = 64, median age =17 years, interquartile range, IQR = 15–18 years) with a history of ‘severe’ recurrent NSLBP from part one based on a specific eligibility criteria and compared body mass index, relative school bag weight and hamstring flexibility with matched adolescents without NSLBP. Data was analysed using Statistica version 11. Independent t-tests or χ2 tests of association were used for continuous and categorical data, respectively. The statistical significance was set at p < .05.ResultsRecurrent NSLBP was associated with self-reported factors such as perceptions of a heavy school bag [χ2 (1) = 85.9, p < 0.001]. A significant proportion of adolescents with recurrent NSLBP spent over 30 min carrying the school bag to and from school [χ2 (1) =32.2, p < 0.001]. It was also associated with prolonged sitting (p < 0.001), not playing sports [χ2 (1) =5.85, p = 0.02] and tight hamstrings [χ2 (1) =7.6, p = 0.006].ConclusionsAlthough conclusions from this study are hesitant because of the cross-sectional nature of the study and the relatively small sample size in follow-up study, recurrent NSLBP is associated with perceptions of a heavy school bag, duration of school bag carriage, no sports participation, prolonged sitting on entertainment activities, and tight hamstrings. These findings add to the importance of promoting physical activity at school or home especially aimed at improving muscle flexibility.

Whole-body vibration training in middle-aged females: improving muscle flexibility and the power of lower limbs

Purpose Physical inactivity in conjunction with biological aging may lead to a decline in flexibility and neuromuscular function, contributing to physical frailty and an increased risk of injuries. Although, whole-body vibration has gained popularity as an alternative mode of exercise for improving physical fitness, only few studies examined the effects of WBV training on fitness parameters in middle-aged individuals and the outcomes are not clear. This study investigated the effects of a 2-month whole-body vibration training (WBVT) program using a side-to-side vibration mode on flexibility, on power of lower limbs and on isokinetic peak torque of middle-aged women.

English

Introduction Atrophy and muscle shortening due to articular immobilisation are common problems in musculoskeletal rehabilitation. Muscle stretching mechanical stimuli might be considered as the golden standard procedure to improve muscle flexibility in rehabilitation. Muscle stretching generates mechanotransduction, potentiating specific gene expression and promotes sarcomerogenesis and extracellular matrix remodelling on shortened and atrophied muscles. Hypothesis Diacutaneous fibrolysis, like stretching, uses an external force to stress connective and muscle tissues mechanically to treat muscle shortening; thus, it is widely used in clinical practice even if there is no evidence to support it. Considering this subject, we have hypothesised that diacutaneous fibrolysis can generate mechanotransduction, affecting muscle hypertrophy and extracellular matrix remodelling after immobilisation. Evaluation of hypothesis We have designed a laboratory experimental study with a sample of 50 rats. The sample was randomly divided into five groups: Control group (n = 10) with non–immobilised rats; 3–week immobilisation group (n = 10); 3–week immobilisation/3–week non–immobilisation group (n = 10);3–week immobilisation/3–week stretching group (n = 10); and 3–week immobilisation/3–week diacutaneous fibrolysis group (n = 10). All rats had their left tibiotarsal joint immobilised in maximum plantar flexion with the orthotics for 3 consecutive weeks. After the immobilisation period, the intervention groups received their respective intervention on their left triceps suralis for 3 weeks. Dependent variables of the study were sarcomere analysis, polymerase chain reaction, connective tissue density, collagen birefringence and matrix metalloproteinases. Statistical analysis was performed using analysis of variance and Duncan post hoc test was applied for differences between groups. For all calculations, a 5% (p < 0.05) significance level was established. Conclusion If the hypothesis is confirmed, the present study might provide evidence to support the use of this physical therapy resource widely used to treat muscle dysfunctions.

Effect of body position and type of stretching on hamstring flexibility

Background and objective: Stretching exercise protocols, as part of outpatient treatment or home exercise programs, are used to improve muscle flexibility. So, the aim of the study was to examine the body position effect (standing and supine) and dynamic range of motion (DROM) stretching technique on hamstring flexibility. Material and Methods: Seventy five subjects with decreased flexibility of hamstring (defined as ≥30° loss of active knee extension, from 90°hip flexion position), participants were randomly assigned to one of three equal groups. The first group performed static stretch from standing for 30 sec. The second group performed static stretch from supine for 30 sec. The third group performed DROM stretch. The stretching procedure conducted three times per week for four weeks. Results: There was a significant increase in the knee extension range of motion for standing, supine and DROM stretch (p 0.05). Conclusion: Both standing and supine stretches displayed improvement in the hamstring flexibility, and both of them produced higher improvement than DROM stretch during hamstring flexibility training

Effect of single bout of passive stretching and Mulligan's Bent Leg Raise (BLR) on Hamstring flexibility in young adults with asymptomatic bilateral Hamstring tightness

Objectives: Various stretching techniques have been used to improve muscle flexibility in rehabilitation and sports. Mechanisms involving the efficacy of a stretching technique were studied and certain conclusions indicate one technique better than the other. Passive stretching is one most commonly used method and the recent inclusion of other techniques like ballistic stretching, Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) techaniques with its variants and Mulligan's Bent Leg Raise (BLR) have created more scope for researchers to compare and conclude better methods for improving flexibility. The aim of the present study was to measure hamstrings flexibility after a single bout of passive hamstring muscle stretching and BLR and comparing the effects between the two techniques. Methods: 78 asymptomatic individuals with bilateral hamstring tightness were randomized to one of the two groups - passive stretching (n=39) and BLR (n=39). Hamstring flexibility was measured using Back Saver Sit and Reach Test before and after the tests for both right and left lower limbs. Results and Conclusion: Analysis using dependent revealed that both passive stretching and BLR groups improved hamstring flexibility on both sides with improvements of 3.7cm and 4cm on right and left side respectively in BLR group and 1.3cm and 2cm on right and left side respectively in passive stretching group. However results of between group comparisons using independent t tests were not significant (p=.992 and .729 respectively for right and left sides) which suggests that passive stretching is equally effective as BLR technique in improving hamstrings length.

Pathologie traumatique du muscle strié squelettique

Striated muscle injuries of the limbs are quite usual in sports medicine. All grades of severity can be met but several basic principles of diagnosis and treatment allow providing a solution in most of the cases. After a brief review of the histological structure of the striated muscle and the risk factors for muscle injury, this chapter will separately analyse the management of acute- and chronic-muscle strain. It is necessary to distinguish between direct injuries, secondary to direct blow, and indirect ones, the most frequent, where the intrinsic strength of the muscular tissue is overwhelmed by the velocity and magnitude of the external forces. In most of the cases, histological lesion occurs at the myo-aponeurosis or myo-tendinous junction. In the acute setting, clinical examination and imaging allow identifying the lesion type (contracture, tear, rupture), the severity, the location, and to draw the consequences in terms of therapeutic strategy and disability duration. Ultrasonography is here a key for the diagnosis and the prognosis evaluation. Diagnosis of chronic muscle injuries relies also both on clinical examination and imaging. Imaging identifies the type of injury: fibrous scar, pseudo-cyst, calcifications. Due to its 3-D representation MRI is the best imaging tool for diagnosis and for pre-operative planning. Prevention plays a major role in avoiding muscle injuries. Investigating for the athlete’s specific risk factors, correcting muscle balance and metabolic disturbances, training properly, improving muscle flexibility have significantly decreased the incidence of muscle injuries. Most acute injuries are treated conservatively. Therapy is adapted to the type of the lesion: physiotherapy, rehabilitation, eccentric isokinetic muscle strengthening, appropriate training and return to athletic activities avoid injury recurrence. Surgery is indicated only in case of major muscle lesions or compressive syndromes. Chronic muscle injuries are most of the time best treated by surgical means. The surgical method and strategy will depend on the type of lesion: from the excision of a simple fibrous scar or calcifications to functional removal of a muscle, sometimes associated with local neurolysis.