Immediate Effect of Neurodynamic Tensioner Versus Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Stretch on Subjects with Short Hamstring Syndrome

Abstract

Background: Decreased flexibility of Hamstrings has a negative impact on the posture of lumbo-pelvic region and may serve as a cause of low back pain. It is also a major contributing factor for lumbar spine disorders, hamstring strains and other sports related injuries. Aim of Study: Tocompare the effects of (NT) Neurody-namic Tensioner and (PNF) hold-relax stretching on hamstring flexibility in order toidentify the most effective intervention for short hamstring syndrome. Material and Methods: Present study conducted as Pre-test - Post-test Experimental study. Participants: Forty subjects with short hamstring syndrome participated in this study. Subjects were subdivided into two matched groups; each group consisted of twenty subjects, group A who received neural tensioner in slump position; and group B who received the PNF (hold-relax) stretching. Outcome Measure: Knee extension angle (KEA) in degrees was measured using the Active Knee Extension (AKE) test with using a digital goniometer. Results: There was no significant difference in the KEA between group A and B pretreatment (p=0.75). There was no significant difference in the KEA between group A and B post treatment (p=0.38). Conclusions: Neurodynamic tensioner and PNF (hold-relax) stretching are equally effective in increasing hamstring flexibility immediately in subjects with short hamstring syndrome.