Effect of modified hold-relax stretching and static stretching on hamstring muscle flexibility

• Published in: Journal of Physical Therapy Science Vol. 27; no. 2; pp. 535 - 538
• Main Authors: Alghadir, Ahmad, Iqbal, Amir, Anwer, Shahnawaz, Ahmed, Hashim
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Japan The Society of Physical Therapy Science 2015
• Subjects: Flexibility; Modified hold-relax stretching technique; Original; Static stretching; Modified hold-relax stretching technique; Static stretching; Flexibility
• ISSN: 0915-5287; 2187-5626; 2187-5626
• DOI: 10.1589/jpts.27.535

[Purpose] The aim of present study was to compare the effectiveness of modified hold-relax stretching and static stretching in improving the hamstring muscle flexibility. [Subjects and Methods] Forty-five male subjects with hamstring tightness were included in this study. The subjects were randomly placed into three groups: the modified hold-relax stretching, static stretching and control groups. The modified hold-relax stretching group performed 7 seconds of isometric contraction and then relaxed for 5 seconds, and this was repeated five times daily for five consecutive days. The static stretching group received 10 minutes of static stretching with the help of a pulley and weight system for five consecutive days. The control group received only moist heat for 20 minutes for five consecutive days. A baseline reading of passive knee extension (PKE) was taken prior to the intervention; rest measurements were taken immediate post intervention on day 1, day 3, day 5, and after a 1 week follow-up, i.e., at the 12th day. [Results] On comparing the baseline readings of passive knee extension (PKE), there was no difference noted between the three groups. On comparing the posttest readings on day 5 between the 3 groups, a significant difference was noted. However, post hoc analysis revealed an insignificant difference between the modified hold-relax stretching and static stretching groups. There was a significant difference between the static stretching and control groups and between the modified hold-relax stretching and control groups. [Conclusion] The results of this study indicate that both the modified hold-relax stretching technique and static stretching are equally effective, as there was no significant difference in improving the hamstring muscle flexibility between the two groups.