The purpose of this study is to verify the immediate effects of gastrocnemius myofascial release on the active cervical flexion and extension range of motion.
After completing the questionnaire, 91 healthy participants will be randomly divided into two groups: the Intervention Group (IG) (n=46) and the Control Group (CG) (n=45). In the first assessment (M0), the range of motion of cervical flexion and extension will be measured using a smartphone (Galaxy S21 FE 5G, Android) and the Clinometer application. The myofascial release technique (foam roller) will be applied to the gastrocnemius of the dominant lower limb for 4 minutes (3 sets of 1 minute with 30 seconds of rest). Participants in the control group will remain at complete rest for a period of 4 minutes, lying in the supine position, without performing any type of active or passive intervention. Immediately after the intervention/control, all groups will be reassessed (M1).
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
HEALTH_SERVICES_RESEARCH
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
90
The foam roller will be in contact with the muscle being tested and the patient will exert a load until they feel a slight pain. In this way, the patient performs a self-massage in the direction of the muscle fibers.
Change of active cervical range of motion in flexion and extension.
Data will be collected at two time points: baseline assessment (M0) and after the intervention/control (M1). Participants will be instructed to sit with their spine straight and supported against the backrest of the chair, with ankles, knees, and hips positioned at 90 degrees. Arms will remain crossed over the chest to prevent compensatory thoracic movements. Before the test begins, each participant will be asked to actively perform the flexion and extension movements to the limit of their range of motion, aiming to reduce stiffness and promote familiarization with the assessment protocol. Measurements will be taken three times for each movement (active flexion and extension), with 30-second rest intervals between each measurement. The average of the three values will be calculated and recorded as the final value.
Time frame: Change from Baseline (M0) to Immediately after intervention or control (M1)
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