Comparative analysis of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization and integrated neuromuscular inhibition technique in patients with hamstring tightness
Description
This study was conducted to compare the effectiveness of Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) and Integrated Neuromuscular Inhibition Technique (INIT) in individuals with hamstring tightness. A randomized clinical trial design was used, including 40 participants who were allocated into two groups. The IASTM group received instrument-based soft tissue mobilization, while the INIT group underwent a combination of ischemic compression, muscle energy technique, and positional release therapy. Interventions were administered twice weekly for four weeks. Outcome measures included the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) for pain, Straight Leg Raise (SLR) and Active Knee Extension (AKE) tests for hamstring flexibility, Pressure Pain Threshold (PPT) using a digital algometer, and the SF-36 questionnaire for quality of life. Data were collected at baseline and after the intervention period and analyzed using appropriate statistical tests. The findings of the study demonstrated that both IASTM and INIT significantly improved hamstring flexibility, reduced pain intensity, increased pressure pain threshold, and enhanced quality of life among participants. These results suggest that both interventions are effective in managing hamstring tightness, likely through different mechanisms IASTM primarily targeting myofascial restrictions and tissue mobility, while INIT focuses on neuromuscular inhibition and trigger point deactivation. The study provides clinically relevant evidence supporting the use of manual therapy techniques beyond conventional stretching approaches. It also highlights the importance of selecting treatment strategies based on the underlying cause of hamstring tightness, thereby contributing to evidence-based physiotherapy practice.
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Institutions
- Maharishi Markandeshwar University, MullanaHaryana, Ambāla