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Biomechanical Changes Related to Low Back Pain: An Innovative Tool for Movement Pattern Assessment and Treatment Evaluation in Rehabilitation

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ACUTE OUTCOMES OF MYOFASCIAL DECOMPRESSION (CUPPING THERAPY) COMPARED TO SELF-MYOFASCIAL RELEASE ON HAMSTRING

Aric J Warren¹, Zach LaCross², Jennifer L Volberding¹

¹Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Department of Athletic Training, School of Allied Health, 1111 W. 17 Street, Tulsa, OK 74107.

International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy

|December 23, 2020

Summary

Myofascial decompression (MFD) and self-myofascial release (SMR) both improved hamstring flexibility. Patients reported greater perceived benefits from MFD compared to SMR for hamstring flexibility enhancement.

Keywords:

cupping foam roller hamstring myofascial decompression self-myofascial release

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Area of Science:

Sports Medicine
Rehabilitation Science
Physical Therapy

Background:

Myofascial decompression (MFD), or cupping, and self-myofascial release (SMR) are common techniques for soft tissue injuries and flexibility.
MFD uses negative pressure to manipulate soft tissues.
SMR often involves foam rolling for soft tissue mobilization.

Purpose of the Study:

To compare the acute effects of MFD versus moist heat pack with SMR on hamstring flexibility and patient-rated outcomes.
To evaluate these treatments in athletes with diagnosed hamstring pathology.

Main Methods:

A pilot randomized controlled trial involving 17 collegiate athletes with hamstring pathology.
Participants were randomly assigned to MFD (n=9) or SMR (n=8).
Assessed passive range of motion (ROM), Perceived Functional Ability Questionnaire (PFAQ), and Global Rating of Change (GROC) pre- and post-intervention.

Main Results:

Both MFD and SMR significantly improved passive hamstring flexibility (ROM) and PFAQ scores from pre- to post-intervention.
The MFD group showed a significant difference in favor of MFD for Global Rating of Change (GROC) values.

Conclusions:

Both MFD and SMR are beneficial for increasing hamstring length.
Patients perceived greater benefits in hamstring flexibility with MFD compared to SMR.