Effects of Myofascial Decompression and Neurodynamic Sliding on Hamstring Tightness in Division I Track Athletes

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of myofascial decompression and neurodynamic sliding technique on hamstring tightness in Division I track athletes. Twenty one athletes (mean ± SD: age= 20.24 ± 1.136 yrs; height= 1.70 ± .082 m; mass 64.42 ± 10.689 kg) complaining of hamstring tightness with less than 80° in the Active Knee Extension test were randomly assigned to three groups consisting of 7 subjects each [Myofascial Decompression (MFD), Neurodynamic Sliding (NDS), and Control (CON)] for five minutes of treatment. Hamstring length (ROM) electromyographic analysis (EMG), rate of force development (RFD), and muscle torque (TOR) were assessed prior to, immediately post, and 24 hours after the intervention. Subjects also completed patient-reported outcome instruments, the Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) and Disablement in the Physically Active Scale (DPAS) at all time points. There were no significant differences between the three interventions with respect to ROM, EMG, RFD, and TOR immediately post and 24 hours after treatment. Improvements in ROM after MFD and NDS were observed although not significant. In conclusion, MFD and NDS can be used as methods to improve ROM without impacting performance or strength.