A preliminary study of myofascial release technique effect on the range of hip flexion, knee flexion, and ankle dorsiflexion motion at affected lower extremity in individuals with chronic stroke
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Abstract
Background: Muscle contractures lead to many problems (i.e., reduced joint range of motion (ROM) and decreased soft tissue extensibility) and may consequently lead to deformities and loss of function in individuals with chronic stroke. Myofascial release (MFR) technique has been recognized as a therapy option for improving the soft tissue extensibility and increasing joint ROM in other population. However, no study has investigated effects of the MFR technique on lower limb muscle flexibility in individuals with chronic stroke.
Objectives: This preliminary study aimed to investigate the effect of myofascial release (MFR) technique at the superficial back line on ROM of hip flexion, knee flexion, and ankle dorsiflexion changes in the affected side of lower extremity in individuals with chronic stroke.
Materials and methods: Fifteen individuals with chronic stroke who complained stiffness of the affected lower extremity while walking and met all inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study. The MFR technique was applied on the superficial back line (plantar fascia, achilles tendon, gastrocnemius muscle and hamstrings muscle) in the affected side of lower extremity, 10 minutes per area, 3 times per week for 4 weeks (12 times) by a physical therapist. ROM of hip flexion, knee flexion and ankle dorsiflexion were measured at pre-intervention, immediate-intervention, and 4 weeks after intervention using a goniometer by a blinded assessor. One-way repeated measure analysis of variance was used to compute data.
Results: The ROM of hip flexion, knee flexion, and ankle dorsiflexion were significantly greater at immediate-intervention and 4 weeks after intervention as compared to baseline (p<0.05).
Conclusion: This preliminary study summarized that the MFR technique could increase ROM of hip flexion, knee flexion and ankle dorsiflexion in the affected side of lower extremity in individuals with chronic stroke. The MFR technique may be used as an alternative option combined with general training program for stroke rehabilitation.
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