Effect of Myofascial Release Versus Retro Walking on Hamstring Flexibility and Dynamic Balance in Young Collegiate Students with Tight Hamstrings

Background: Hamstring muscle tightness can be defined as “inability to extend the knee completely when the hip is flexed.” Hamstring tightness is one of the factors that affect dynamic balance because it loses the ability to deform while being stretched This inability results in reduced hip flexion, altered hip extension, and a posterior tilt of the pelvis, which leads to decreased lumbar lordosis and back pain Prevalence of hamstring tightness is very high among college going students in the age group between 18–25 years. Myofascial release technique and retro walking can improve hamstring flexibility. However, there are very few studies done on the effectiveness of retro walking vs MFR for improving hamstring flexibility. Hence, this study compares the effectiveness of MFR and retro walking for improving hamstring flexibility and dynamic balance in young collegiate students with hamstring tightness. Aim and Objectives: The study aimed to find out the effect of myofascial release and retro walking on hamstring flexibility and dynamic balance in young collegiate students with hamstrings tightness. Methodology: 100 subjects were selected based on the selection criterion. The subjects were randomly divided into two groups with n=50 in each group. Group A underwent myofascial release, and Group B received retro walking. The whole procedure of the study was explained to all the subjects. Prior to and after treatment, both the outcome measures, the Popliteal angle Test and Y-Balance Test, were measured and recorded. Intervention in the form of Myofascial Release Technique and Retro–walking was given 3 sessions per week for 4 weeks. Data Analysis: Excel higher version 2021 has been used for statistical analysis. The level of significance for PRE and POST treatment for Popliteal angle test and Y-test for between group was calculated by using ANOVA test. The level of significance for within group was done using the ANOVA test. Result: Results showed us that both the groups were clinically significant. After 4 weeks of treatment increase in hamstring flexibility and dynamic balance was seen with p value P<0.0001 in both the groups. Although there was significant improvement in group A (MFR) compared to group B (Retro walking). Conclusion: MFR and Retro-walking were significant in terms of clinical outcome. Hence, the study concluded that the MFR as well as retro–walking is effective in terms of hamstrings flexibility and dynamic balance. Although both treatments are effective but MFR is more effective than Retro Walking.