Short-term effects of static stretching versus myofascial release on hamstring tightness and lower extremity function in sedentary IT professionals: a randomized controlled trial.

backgroundProlonged sedentary work is associated with hamstring tightness, reduced flexibility, and functional limitations among information technology (IT) professionals. Comparative evidence for static stretching and myofascial release (MFR) in this population remains limited.

objectiveTo compare the short-term effects of static stretching and myofascial release on hamstring tightness and lower extremity function in sedentary IT professionals.

methodsIn this two-arm randomized controlled trial, 30 IT professionals were allocated to static stretching (n = 15) or MFR (n = 15). Both groups received stipulated treatment five times weekly for three weeks. Active knee extension range of motion (AKE-ROM) was the primary outcome measure, and the self-reported Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS) was the secondary outcome measure. Outcomes assessments were performed at baseline and days 8, 15, and 22. Data were analyzed using linear mixed-effects models examining group, time, and group-by-time interaction effects, with Bonferroni-adjusted post hoc comparisons.

resultsBoth interventions significantly improved AKE-ROM and self-reported LEFS over time (all p < 0.001). A significant group-by-time interaction favored static stretching for AKE-ROM, with greater adjusted improvements at Day 15 (mean difference 3.27°, 95% CI 2.28-4.26) and Day 22 (5.20°, 95% CI 4.21-6.19; both p < 0.001). Although these between-group differences were statistically significant, the Day 22 difference remained smaller than previously reported minimal detectable change values for the AKE test. Self-reported LEFS scores improved significantly in both groups, with between-group differences remaining small and below clinically meaningful thresholds, indicating broadly comparable functional benefit. Sensitivity analyses adjusting for age and BMI yielded consistent findings. No adverse events were reported.

conclusionsBoth interventions improved AKE-ROM and self-reported LEFS over the study period. Static stretching demonstrated statistically greater improvements in AKE-ROM; however, the magnitude of this difference was smaller than published minimal detectable change values, and its clinical importance remains uncertain. Given the absence of a control group and the short follow-up period, findings should be interpreted cautiously.

trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT06586554; initial release date: 04/09/2024.