Effectiveness of the Muscle Energy Technique versus Neurodynamic Sliding on Hamstring Flexibility and Balance among Athletes
Abstract
Objective: Muscle energy technique (MET) and neurodynamic sliding (NDS) are effective in improving hamstring flexibility. However, there is a dearth of information on the efficacy of these techniques for improving balance and regarding which is superior. Therefore, the purpose of the study was to compare the effects of MET with NDS on improving hamstring flexibility and balance among athletes.
Material and Methods: A pre-test and post-test experimental study design with a total of 90 participants (30 cricketers, 30 football players, 30 runners) with unilateral hamstring tightness were randomly assigned to Group MET (n=30), Group NDS (n=30), Group MHP (moist heat pack) (n=30). PSLR (passive straight leg raising), AKE (active knee extension), SST (stork stand test), and mSEBT (modified star excursion balance test) were recorded at baseline and post-intervention.
Results: Paired t-test for pre- and post-test comparisons of all the groups showed significant improvement (p-value=0.000) in all the outcomes. One-way ANOVA for between-group comparisons showed significant differences for PSLR (p-value=0.000), AKE (p-value=0.000), SST (p-value=0.018), mSEBT reach distance [anterior (p-value=0.000), postero-medial (p-value=0.001), and postero-lateral (p-value=0.001)], mSEBT normalized scores [anterior (p-value=0.002), postero-medial (p-value=0.002), and postero-lateral direction (p-value=0.002)], and mSEBT composite scores (p-value=0.002). Level of significance was set at 95%.
Conclusion: MET showed a significant increase in hamstring flexibility; therefore, it is preferred to NDS for increasing hamstring flexibility among athletes. Additionally, MET and NDS are equally effective at improving static and dynamic balance among athletes, as both resulted in comparable outcomes.
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