Comparison of Bowen Technique and Sustained Stretching Technique on Hamstring Flexibility in Asymptomatic Females

Abstract

Background and Purpose: The hamstring muscle shortening occurs in normal person which can lead to movement dysfunction. There is a link between limited flexibility and the development of neuromusculoskeletal symptoms. The Bowen technique is used in connective tissue flexibility. This study aimed to determine the effects of the Bowen technique and sustained stretching on improving flexibility of the hamstring muscle in asymptomatic females. Methods: A randomized clinical trial study was conducted, from November 2020 to April 2021 in Mubarak Hospital Sargodha, Pakistan. 44 healthy females were allotted into group A and group B. Group A received Bowen therapy and Group B received sustained stretching technique for three weeks, both groups received these interventions three times per week. The readings were taken at baseline, after the 9th session, and at follow-up. Subjects were asked to come for follow-up after 1 week of the 9th session. Outcome measures included an active knee extension test and sit and reach test.Results: Out of 44 females, 22 were in each of the two groups. The mean age in our study was 28.66±2.787, height was 1.53±0.08, and weight was 54.43±4.88, also 29% of subjects were overweight, and 61% were normal weight based on body mass index. Findings revealed that a statistically significant difference was observed within-group analysis (P<0.001) and in Between-group analyses, no significant difference was observed (P>0.05) with respect to active knee extension and sit and reach test. Conclusion: Both Bowen and sustained stretching techniques were equally effective in improving hamstring flexibility in asymptomatic females. Physiotherapists can use either sustain stretching or Bowen techniques to improve hamstring flexibility.