Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1 Bachelor of Health and Kinesiology (At, Athletic Trainers), Division of Health and Kinesiology, International Incheon University (IUN), Incheon, Republic of North Korea.
2 Assistant Professor of Exercise Physiology, Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Faculty of Humanities North Tehran Branch of Islamic Azad University. Tehran ,Iran
Abstract
Purpose: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological condition leading to muscle stiffness, spasticity, and reduced flexibility, particularly in the posterior chain muscles. Myofascial release (MFR), has shown promise in improving flexibility in various populations, but the cumulative effects of increasing the number of sessions have not been well-studied in individuals with MS. This study aimed to investigate the effects of a six-week myofascial stretching training program on the flexibility of posterior chain muscles in individuals with MS, with a focus on evaluating the cumulative effects of increasing the number of sessions. Method: A total of 30 female participants with MS were randomly assigned to one of two groups: a group receiving myofascial stretching training twice per week (n=15), and a group receiving training four times per week (n=15). Flexibility of the posterior chain muscles was assessed using the Sit and Reach (S&R) test at baseline, after 6 weeks of the intervention. Results: The results showed a significant improvement in S&R scores in both intervention groups. The group receiving training four times per week demonstrated greater flexibility improvements than the group receiving training twice per week, suggesting a cumulative effect of increasing the number of sessions. Conclusion: A six-week myofascial stretching training program can effectively improve the flexibility of posterior chain muscles in individuals with MS. Increasing the frequency of sessions from twice per week to four times per week leads to greater cumulative improvements in flexibility. These findings have important implications for the design of rehabilitation programs targeting flexibility in individuals with MS.
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