Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 24, 2026
10:41
Method to Measure Tone of Axial and Proximal Muscle
Published on: December 14, 2011
Static and cyclic stretching: their different effects on the passive torque-angle curve.
A Nordez1, P J McNair, P Casari
1Université de Nantes, Nantes Atlantique Universités, Laboratoire Motricité, Interactions, Performance EA 4334, France.
Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport
|April 4, 2009
Summary
Static stretching consistently increased knee range of motion across all torque levels. Cyclic stretching, however, altered the torque-angle curve shape, with greater changes at lower torque levels, suggesting different underlying mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Kinesiology
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Passive torque-angle curves can differ based on stretching type (cyclic vs. static).
- Previous studies have not directly compared these curves within the same individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if static stretching causes a uniform change in the torque-angle curve.
- To determine if cyclic stretching alters the shape of the torque-angle curve.
- To compare the effects of static and cyclic stretching on passive joint mechanics in the same subjects.
Main Methods:
- Eight subjects underwent passive knee extension/flexion on a Biodex dynamometer.
- Torque-angle curves were measured before and after static and cyclic stretching protocols.
- Angular changes were analyzed across 11 torque levels (0-100% maximal torque).
Main Results:
- Static stretching resulted in a consistent mean angular change of 5.2 degrees across all torque levels.
- Cyclic stretching led to torque-dependent angular changes, with more significant changes at lower torque levels.
- The shape of the torque-angle curve was altered by cyclic stretching but remained relatively constant after static stretching.
Conclusions:
- Static and cyclic stretching employ different physiological mechanisms.
- Changes in muscle resting length and thixotropy are proposed mechanisms influencing the observed differences.
- The findings highlight the importance of considering stretching modality when assessing joint range of motion and passive mechanics.
More Related Videos
04:37A Passive Ankle Dorsiflexion Testing System for an In Vivo Model of Overuse-induced Tendinopathy
Published on: March 1, 2024
07:44Construction of Constant-Load (Isotonic) and Constant-Velocity (Isokinetic) Torque-Velocity-Power Profiles In vivo for the Rat Plantar Flexors
Published on: October 3, 2025
Related Concept Videos
01:10Torque
Torque is an important quantity for describing the dynamics of a rotating rigid body. We see the application of torque in many ways in the world, such as when pressing the accelerator in a car, which causes the engine to apply additional torque on the drivetrain. Here, we define torque and provide a framework to create an equation to calculate torque for a rigid body with fixed-axis rotation.
Torque can be considered as the rotational counterpart to force. Since forces change the translational...
Torque can be considered as the rotational counterpart to force. Since forces change the translational...
01:10Residual Stresses in Circular Shafts
In materials that exhibit elastic and plastic behavior, known as elastoplastic materials, residual stresses can accumulate when these materials experience plastic deformation. This deformation arises from either high levels of shearing stress or significant strains. Residual stresses are internal stresses that persist within a material after removing the external force causing deformation. This phenomenon is demonstrated when observing the behavior of a shaft under torque; notably, the shaft's...
01:13Angle of Twist - Elastic Range
Consider a cylindrical shaft with a length denoted by L and a consistent cross-sectional radius referred to as r. This shaft undergoes a torque at the free end. The highest shearing strain within the shaft is directly proportional to the twist angle and the radial distance from the shaft axis. When the shaft behaves elastically, this shearing strain can be articulated using variables such as the applied torque, radial distance, the polar moment of inertia, and the modulus of rigidity. By...
01:24Circular Shafts - Elastoplastic Materials
The study of solid circular shafts under stress shows that within the elastic limit, stress increases directly to the distance from the shaft's center. This relationship holds until the shaft reaches a critical point of stress, beyond which it begins to yield, marking the transition from elastic to plastic deformation. At this crucial juncture, the maximum torque the shaft can endure without permanent deformation is determined, signifying the limit of its elastic behavior.
As torque on the...
As torque on the...
01:13Angle of Twist: Problem Solving
An electric motor applies a torque of 700 N·m to an aluminum shaft, triggering a stable rotation. Two pulleys, B and C, are subjected to torques of 300 N·m and 400 N·m, respectively. The modulus of rigidity is provided as 25 GPa. With the knowledge of the length and diameter of each segment, the twist angle between the two pulleys can be computed. First, a section cut is made between pulleys B and C, and the cut cross-section is analyzed using a free-body diagram. Given that the torque exerted...
01:18Stress Concentrations in Circular Shafts
Consider the elastic torsion formula, which applies to a circular shaft with a consistent cross-section. This formula assumes that the shaft's ends are loaded with rigid plates firmly attached. However, in many cases, torques are applied to the shaft through mechanisms like flange couplings or gears, which are connected by keys inserted into keyways. This application method modifies the stress distribution near the point of torque application, causing it to deviate from the distributions...