This randomized crossover pilot clinical trial evaluated the effects of two self-administered physiotherapy techniques in people with hamstring tightness and a history of non-specific low back pain.
Participants were randomly assigned to one of two treatment sequences. One sequence performed self-myofascial release using a foam roller first, followed by a one-month washout period, and then performed a self-administered neurodynamic sliding technique. The other sequence performed the neurodynamic sliding technique first, followed by a one-month washout period, and then performed the foam roller intervention.
The main objective of the study was to compare the effects of both interventions on hamstring flexibility. Secondary outcomes included active knee extension range of motion, dynamic balance, pressure pain threshold, hamstring and gluteus maximus strength, and low back pain intensity.
Men and women aged 16 years or older.
History of non-specific low back pain during the previous three months and/or recurrent or chronic non-specific low back pain.
Limited hamstring flexibility, defined as hamstring tightness with 75 degrees or less of hip flexion with knee extension during the Straight Leg Raise test.
No previous surgery involving the spine or lower limb.
Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
History of hamstring muscle or tendon injury during the previous year.
Lumbar or lower-limb neurological deficits.
Lower-limb length discrepancy.
Crossover
Self-Myofascial Release Using a Foam Roller
Other interventionParticipants will perform bilateral self-myofascial release of the hamstring muscles using a foam roller. The technique will be performed for 2 minutes per leg over three consecutive days.
Self-Administered Neurodynamic Sliding Technique
Other interventionParticipants will perform a seated self-administered neurodynamic sliding technique over three consecutive days. The intervention will consist of 3 sets of 20 repetitions, with 20 seconds of rest between sets.
Change in Hamstring Flexibility Measured With the Straight Leg Raise Test
Hamstring flexibility will be assessed using the Straight Leg Raise test. The test will be performed with the participant in the supine position, and hip flexion range of motion will be measured in degrees using a goniometer. Higher values indicate greater hamstring flexibility.
Change in Hamstring Flexibility Measured With the Active Knee Extension Test
Hamstring flexibility will be assessed using the Active Knee Extension test. The knee extension angle will be measured in degrees using a goniometer, with the hip positioned at 90 degrees of flexion.
Change in Dynamic Balance Measured With the Y-Balance Test
Dynamic balance will be assessed using the Y-Balance Test. Reach distances in the anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral directions will be recorded in centimeters and normalized to lower limb length.
Change in Pressure Pain Threshold
Isometric strength of the hamstring muscles and gluteus maximus will be assessed using a handheld dynamometer. Values will be recorded in Newtons, with higher values indicating greater muscle strength.
Change in Low Back Pain Intensity
Low back pain intensity will be assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale, ranging from 0 to 10, where 0 indicates no pain and 10 indicates the worst imaginable pain.
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