Effect of Four Weeks Muscle Energy Technique Versus Retro-Walking on Hamstring Muscle Flexibility in Young Adult - A Comparative Study

Background: Hamstring muscle flexibility is essential for athletic performance and injury prevention. Hamstring tightness is a common condition that affects many individuals, particularly students and office workers who engage in prolonged sitting. Hamstring tightness can lead to reduced muscle strength and endurance, decreased flexibility and range of motion, and increased risk of musculoskeletal injuries and low back pain. Aim: Aim of study was to find out the effect of Muscle energy technique VS Retro-walking on hamstring flexibility in young adult. Methodology: 40 participants were selected based on the selection criteria. Prior and after the treatment both the outcome measures popliteal angle were measured. Participants were randomly divided into two groups with n=20 in each group. Group A received MET while group B received Retro-walking. The treatment was given for 5 days in week for consecutive 12 weeks. Results: Mean age of participants of group A and B were 20.15±1.57, 20.15±1.73 years respectively. Group A participants showed marked improvement at popliteal angle outcome measurement compared to group B. Conclusion: MET and Retro-walking were significant in terms of clinical outcome, but the data was not proven to have a significant p value. This study suggests that MET is more effective than retro walking in improving hamstring muscle flexibility in young adults. So, it can be implemented clinically as well. Key words: Muscle energy technique, Retro-walking, Hamstring tightness, popliteal angle.