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IASTM vs. Static Stretching for Hamstring Tightness: Short- and Long-Term Effects
Sponsor: GÖKHAN MARAŞ
Summary
This study compares two treatments for people with tight hamstring muscles (the muscles at the back of the thigh): instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) and static stretching. Both are commonly used by physical therapists to improve flexibility, but few studies have looked at their effects beyond a few days after treatment ends. Forty-six adults with hamstring tightness will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group will receive IASTM, and the other will receive static stretching. Both treatments will be given 3 times per week for 4 weeks (12 sessions total). Researchers will measure flexibility (knee extension range of motion), pressure pain threshold, and physical performance (vertical jump and single-leg hop distance) at three time points: before treatment, 3 days after the last session, and 8 weeks after treatment ends. The goal is to find out which treatment provides better short-term and longer-term benefits.
Official title: Comparison of the Short- and Long-Term Effects of Static Stretching and Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization on Flexibility, Performance, and Pressure Pain Threshold in Individuals With Hamstring Tightness: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - Any
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
46
Start Date
2026-09
Completion Date
2027-02
Last Updated
2026-09-24
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization
Participants will receive instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) applied to the hamstring muscle group using a stainless-steel instrument in a scanning technique, distal-to-proximal direction, for 5 minutes per session, 3 times per week for 4 weeks (12 sessions total).
Static Stretching
Participants will receive manual static stretching of the hamstring muscle group, performed in 5 repetitions of 30 seconds of stretch followed by 30 seconds of rest (5 minutes total per session), 3 times per week for 4 weeks (12 sessions total).