Impacts of pressure stimulus and static stretching on calf muscle shape and range of motion of ankle dorsiflexion

Abstract

[Purpose] We examined the effects of static stretching (SS) and pressure stimulus on the calf muscle shape and range of motion of ankle dorsiflexion. [Subjects] The subjects were 60 healthy adults. [Methods] The subjects were divided into three groups based on the stimulus applied: the SS, pressure, and combination groups. Using ultrasonography, a digital camera, and a muscle hardness meter, the range of motion of ankle dorsiflexion, muscle fascicle length, and muscle tendon junction (MTJ) displacement were measured and compared among the three groups. [Results] While no significant differences were found between the averages of the range of motion of ankle dorsiflexion, muscle fascicle length, and muscle elasticity of the three groups, the displacement of MTJ showed a higher value in the combination group than in the SS group, and a low value of stiffness was observed after stimulus only in the combination group. [Conclusion] It is possible to efficiently improve muscle extensibility and elasticity by a synergic effect of neurophysiological and mechanical factors using SS and pressure stimulus in combination.