Acute Effects of Matrix Rhythm Therapy Versus Passive Stretching on Hamstring Flexibility in Females

Hamstring extensibility is of functional significance in prevention of locomotion related injuries. Passive stretching is a typical component of its rehabilitation programs. Recently evolved, matrix therapy promotes extracellular matrix clearance on a cellular level thereby normalizing tension of the musculature. Hence, this study was done to compare the acute effects of passive stretching versus matrix rhythm therapy on hamstring flexibility in normal healthy females. In this experimental study 30 female subjects aged between 18–25 were recruited. After their prior consent, selection criteria included screening and assessment of hamstring tightness by active knee extension test(p>0.05).Subjects fitting the study design were divided into 2 groups of 15 each who received either matrix therapy(Group A) or passive stretching(Group B) for 3 times each within 3 weeks. On each leg matrix was given for 30 minutes whereas passive stretching was repeated 6 times each with 30 secs hold. Pre and Post interventional ranges of both knee extension were measured after each session. Paired ‘t’ test was used to analyze within group difference while independent ‘t’ test was used for between group differences.

Significant improvement in hamstring flexibility was found post intervention compared to pre intervention in both the groups (p<0.001). However greater improvement in flexibility was seen in group A (Matrix rhythm) when compared to group B (passive stretching).

Based on the results, matrix therapy had an upper hand in improving hamstring flexibility than passive stretching. matrix rhythm therapy can be used in the early rehabilitation of individuals with hamstring tightness.