Neural Mobilisation Effect on Calf Muscle

The Effect of Neural Mobilization on Calf Muscle Length and Strength in Ballet Dancers: a Randomized Controlled Trial

The purpose of this study was to investigate Neural mobilisation effects on calf muscles length and strength is crucial to optimize ballet performance and prevent injuries.

A randomized controlled trial is conducted with a total of 54 non-professional ballet dancers recruited from ballet studios across the Klang Valley following inclusion and exclusion criteria. Baseline measurement of calf muscle performance was conducted before randomization using knee-to-wall (KtW) test, handheld dynamometer (HHD) and Y-balance (YBT). Participants were allocated to experimental (NM and self-stretching) or control (self stretching) .

Inclusion Criteria:

• Classical ballet trained female or male .
• Subjects who are trained in classical ballet syllabus such as Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) Syllabus, The Classical Ballet Syllabus by Commonwealth Society of Teachers of Dancing (CSTD), Vaganova Syllabus and more.
• Aged 13-23 years old
• Dancers who took class/practice ballet for at least 3 times per week
• Participated in ballet competition in recent 6 months

Exclusion Criteria:

• Professional full time ballet dancers
• Non-ballet dancers
• Self-reported lower extremity injuries in the past 6 months prior to date of data collection
• Subjects with existing musculoskeletal injuries might affect calf muscle performance
• Involvement in other sports or physical training