Abstract

Objective: To compare the effects of percussive therapy and manual myofascial release to increase flexibility and ROM of hamstring muscles.
Methodology: This double-blinded, two armed, randomized clinical trial was conducted at Sehat Medical Complex, The University of Lahore from April to October 2023. We assigned randomly 32 eligible participants into two groups (16 in each group) with the help of sealed opaque envelop method. Group A received percussion therapy (PT) while group B received manual myofascial release (MMR). The data were analysed using SPSS 23.
Results: Both groups showed significant improvements in sit to reach test (STRT) after therapy compared to before. STRT (in cm), using active knee extension (AKE), and numeric pain rating scale (NPRS). For Group A, the mean STRT decreased from (16.06 ±1.879cm) to (9.13±2.094cm), AKE decreased from (43.94±5.272) to (17.00±1.549), and NPRS decreased from (5.8750±0.71880) to (2.6875±0.47871). Both groups showed substantial improvements across all variables post-intervention, with Group B showing slightly better reductions in NPRS and AKE scores compared to Group A.
Conclusion: Both percussive therapy and manual myofascial release were equally effective in treating hamstring flexibility and range of motion.

Key words: Flexibility, hamstring muscle, myofascial therapy, range of motion.