"A Study on the Comparative Effectiveness of Muscle Energy Technique and Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization for Hamstring Tightness in Student Populations"

Background: Flexibility is a crucial attribute achievable through various techniques, with the hamstring muscle group commonly presenting issues of shortening. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of muscle energy technique in comparison to instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization among students experiencing hamstring tightness. Materials and Methods: Thirty male and female subjects with hamstring tightness were randomly assigned to two groups. Group A received muscle energy technique, while Group B underwent instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization. The treatment protocol spanned two weeks, with sessions conducted thrice weekly. The primary outcome was evaluated using the active knee extension test, with baseline and post-intervention measurements recorded. Results: Both muscle energy technique and instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization demonstrated significant improvements in hamstring extensibility. However, the enhancement observed in instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization was notably more significant (p > 0.01) than that in the muscle energy technique group (p > 0.107). Conclusion: This study concludes that both muscle energy technique and instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization effectively enhance hamstring flexibility in healthy young adults.