Comparison of Static Stretching and Muscle Energy Techniques on Hamstring Tightness in Asymptomatic Females

Abstract

Background: Hamstring flexibility is an essential variable because decreased extensibility can cause injuries, non-specific low back pain and altered lumbopelvic rhythm. Flexibility training is an important component in preventing or rehabilitation of injuries and also a method of improving one’s performance in everyday activities and sports. Objectives: To compare the effects of static stretching & muscle energy techniques on hamstring shortness in females. Methods: A randomized controlled trial conducted at Department of Health Sciences, Khawaja Fareed University of Engineering & Information Technology Rahim Yar Khan on 50 asymptomatic females. In this study, 50 females were randomly allocated in two groups strictly following the inclusion/exclusion criteria. Group A received hamstring static stretching, while group B muscle energy techniques (Autogenic inhibition). Informed written consent was taken from each participant. 90-90 test, SLR, Sit and reach test were used as outcome measurement tools of hamstring tightness. 6 sessions in 2 weeks were given to each participant. Baseline as well as follow-up data after 2 consecutive weeks was recorded. Results: Mean age of participants of Groups A & B were 26±1.2, 26±0.9 years respectively. Group B participants showed marked improvement at 90-90 test, SLR, Sit and reach outcome measurement tools compared to group A as p-value was found less than 0.05 which is considered significant. Conclusion: Muscle energy techniques particularly autogenic inhibition have better treatment outcome as compared to hamstring static stretching alone in asymptomatic females with hamstring shortness.