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Posture and Time Arrangement Influence Shank Circumference Reduction When Performing Leg Raising Exercise
Yi-Lang Chen1,2, Ya-Ting Cheng1, Jia-Ning Ye1
1Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Ming Chi University of Technology, New Taipei 24301, Taiwan.
Summary
The yoga ball method, combined with a short rest, most effectively reduced shank circumference (SC) compared to other leg raising exercises. This suggests conventional leg raising techniques may need reevaluation for leg fatigue and swelling relief.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Biomechanics
- Rehabilitation Science
Background:
- Leg raising exercises are commonly used to alleviate leg fatigue and swelling.
- The effectiveness of different postures and time arrangements for leg raising exercises is not well-established.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of three leg raising postures (supine, yoga ball, wall support) and two time arrangements (continuous, intermittent) on shank circumference reduction.
- To assess participant discomfort levels associated with each leg raising condition.
Main Methods:
- Nine young women performed leg raising exercises under six combinations of posture and time arrangement for 15 minutes.
- Shank circumference reduction and discomfort ratings were measured after each condition.
- Intermittent exercise included a 1-minute rest period in the middle of the 15-minute test.
Main Results:
- The yoga ball posture yielded the greatest shank circumference reduction (5.4 mm), followed by supine (4.6 mm) and wall support (3.1 mm).
- A significant interaction indicated the yoga ball with intermittent rest achieved the highest reduction (6.7 mm).
- Wall-supported leg raising caused the highest discomfort (4.96), while yoga ball and supine postures had significantly lower discomfort (1.32 and 1.34, respectively).
Conclusions:
- The yoga ball method, particularly with intermittent rest, is the most effective leg raising technique for shank circumference reduction.
- Conventional leg raising exercises may require reconsideration for their effectiveness in managing leg fatigue and swelling.
- Discomfort levels vary significantly across different leg raising postures, influencing adherence and potential benefits.
