Effects of a static stretching program on the incidence of lower extremity musculotendinous strains

Abstract

Objective: Musculotendinous strains are among the most prevalent injuries for which health care professionals provide treatment and rehabilitation interventions. Flexibility has been identified as one of the primary etiologic factors associated with musculotendinous strains, but limited research exists on the effect of a preventive stretching program on musculotendinous strains. Therefore, the purpose of our study was to compare the number of musculotendinous strains for the hamstrings, quadriceps, hip adductors, and gastrocnemius-soleus muscle groups before and after the incorporation of a static stretching program for each muscle group.

Design and setting: We analyzed the incidence of musculotendinous strains among the players of a Division III collegiate football team between 1994 and 1995. All variables were consistent between the 2 seasons except for the incorporation of a lower extremity stretching program in 1995.

Subjects: One hundred and ninety-five Division III college football players.

Measurements: We calculated the number of musculotendinous strains that required a minimum absence of 1 day from practices or games in 1994 and 1995.

Results: A x(2) analysis revealed a significant reduction in the number of lower extremity musculotendinous strains in 1995 as opposed to 1994.

Conclusions: Our statistical analysis indicates an association between the incorporation of a static stretching program and a decreased incidence of musculotendinous strains in Division III college football players.