Effects of Soft Tissue Mobilization at Different Muscle Lengths

Immediate Effects of Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization at Different Muscle Lengths

The purpose of this study will be to compare the effects of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization at different muscle lengths on pain pressure thresholds and measures of flexibility.

Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization is a widely used manual therapy technique, which aims at reducing pain and improving range of motion. Evidence regarding acute responses to instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization at different muscle lengths is lacking. Therefore, the purpose of our study was to conduct a cross-over trial and compare the acute effects of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization at short and long muscle lengths of the calf muscles on pain pressure thresholds and measures of flexibility.

Inclusion Criteria:

• without previous lower limb injuries in the last year
• healthy individuals
• students

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients with acute lower limb disorders e.g. open wounds, hematoma, trauma
• General hypermobility: Beighton score >4.