Effects of Myofascial Release and Stretching Technique on Range of Motion and Reaction Time

Abstract

Abstract.[Purpose] Myofascial release is a manual soft tissue technique that is frequently used in physical therapy, but few reports on the effectiveness of myofascial release are available. We compared the effects of myofascial release and stretching on range of motion, muscle stiffness, and reaction time. [Subjects and Methods] Forty healthy individuals were randomly allocated to four groups: myofascial release for quadriceps; myofascial release for hamstrings; stretch for quadriceps; and controls.[Results] Active range of motion was significantly increased in the two myofascial release groups and the stretch group. Passive range of motion was significantly increased by myofascial release in the quadriceps and stretching groups. No significant differences in muscle stiffness were seen between before and after the interventions. However, premotor time was significantly reduced by myofascial release in the quadriceps and hamstrings groups, with significant differences observed in this parameter between both the quadriceps and hamstrings groups and controls after the interventions. Compared to controls, reaction time was significantly lower after the interventions in the quadriceps and hamstrings groups.[Conclusion] Myofascial release improves not only range of motion, but also ease of movement.

Comparison of Compressive Myofascial Release and the Graston Technique for Improving Ankle-Dorsiflexion Range of Motion

“…However, a systematic review 33 on the effectiveness of myofascial release showed positive outcomes for increasing ROM and treating pain. These findings, specifically from the studies from the systematic review examining myofascial release for increasing hamstrings flexibility, 34,35 shoulder ROM, 36 and jaw mobility in patients with temporomandibular dysfunction, 37 were consistent with our results. Together, these findings demonstrate the benefits of myofascial release for increasing ROM.…”

The immediate effect of bilateral self myofascial release on the plantar surface of the feet on hamstring and lumbar spine flexibility: A pilot randomised controlled trial

“…The use of a FR is often advocated in clinical practice and by fitness professionals in fields such as yoga and sports (Healey et al 2014;Okamoto et al 2014). Related research using therapist initiated myofascial release (MFR), has been identified in increasing quadriceps and hamstrings ROM (Kuruma et al 2013);chronic lower back pain (Ajimsha et al 2014a) and plantar heel pain (Ajimsha et al 2014b).…”

Effect of Self-myofascial Release on Reduction of Physical Stress: A Pilot Study

“…Myofascial release is a method of stretching the myofascial system with low load over a prolonged period of time in order to enhance the functions of the human body, reduce pain and secure appropriate muscle length 8 ) . Myofascial release performed by a therapist induces recovery in the damaged area of the muscle and reduces inflammation and edema 9 , 10 ) . However, it is difficult to perform this therapy alone.…”