Combined Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation and Elastic Taping Improves Ankle Range of Motion Equivalent to Static...

Background/Objective: Maintaining sufficient ankle joint range of motion (ROM) contributes to efficient movement in sports and daily activities. Static stretching (SS), while effective, demands significant time, highlighting the need for alternative, time-efficient approaches to improve ROM. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of combined intervention (CI) using neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) and elastic tape versus SS. Methods: This randomized crossover trial was conducted in healthy university students. They underwent both interventions with a 1-week washout period. The CI entailed the application of elastic tape to the plantar surface of the foot coupled with NMES targeting the posterior lower leg muscles for 1 min. SS was administered for 5 min using a tilt table. Outcome measures included the dorsiflexion angle (DFA), finger-floor distance (FFD), straight leg raise (SLR) angle, plantar flexor strength (PFS), and knee flexor strength (KFS), assessed pre- and post-intervention. DFA was analyzed using equivalence testing with a predefined margin. Results: Both interventions yielded significant improvements in DFA, FFD, and SLR. The combination of NMES and elastic tape demonstrated equivalence to 5 min of SS in enhancing DFA. Neither intervention resulted in a significant reduction in PFS or KFS. Conclusions: The CI of NMES and elastic tape effectively and safely improves flexibility in a short time. Its time efficiency makes it a promising alternative to SS, especially for brief warm-ups or limited rehabilitation time. Further research should explore its long-term effects and broader applicability.