To find the effectiveness of foamrolling along with dynamic Stretching vs Hold and relax PNF technique on tight hamstring muscle in young adults

Abstract

Background: Hamstring tightness is a frequent musculoskeletal problem in young adults usually caused by shortened muscle length or increased stiffness. It can reduce flexibility, restrict the range of motion, and raise the risk of injuries. Stretching techniques such as foam rolling, dynamic stretching, and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) have been widely used to enhance muscle extensibility.

Objective: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of foam rolling combined with dynamic stretching versus hold-and-relax PNF stretching in improving hamstring flexibility among young adults.

Methods: Thirty participants with hamstring tightness were randomly allocated into two groups (n=15 each). Group 1 did foam rolling and dynamic stretching, while Group 2 had hold-and-relax PNF stretching. Group 1 did foam rolling and dynamic stretching, while Group 2 had hold-and-relax PNF stretching. Interventions were performed five days per week for five weeks. Hamstring flexibility was assessed using the Sit-and-Reach test, and active knee extension (AKE) was measured with a goniometer.

Results: Both groups demonstrated significant improvement within their interventions (p<0.005), but Group 2 showed greater gains in flexibility and range of motion compared to Group 1.

Conclusion: The hold-and-relax PNF stretching technique was more effective than foam rolling with dynamic stretching in improving hamstring flexibility and range of motion in young adults.