Effect of Myofascial Pain Release versus Kinesiotaping on Muscle Length and Popliteal Angle among College Going Female Students with Hamstring Tightness - A Comparative Study

P. Jyothi Bai, Dr. S. Raghava Krishna, Dr. C. Shanthi, Dr. K. Senthil Kumar, Dr. K. Madhavi

Abstract: Introduction: Hamstring muscle plays an important role on daily activities. Such as controlled movement of trunk, walking, and it is an important muscle involved in maintaining balance and posture. Aim & Objectives: this study aimed to compare the effects of myofascial pain release (MFR) and Kinesio taping (KT) on muscle length and popliteal angle in college-going female students (ages 19-25) with hamstring tightness. Methodology: Fifty subjects were randomly divided into two groups: Group A received MFR with stretching, and Group B received KT with stretching, over a 4-week treatment period. Pre- and post-treatment measurements of muscle length and popliteal angle were taken using an inch tape and goniometer. Results: Results indicated that both treatments improved muscle length and popliteal angle; however, Group A, which received MFR, showed significantly greater improvement compared to Group B. Conclusion: The study concludes that myofascial pain release is a more effective treatment for hamstring tightness than Kinesio taping and can be recommended for improving muscle length and flexibility in individuals with hamstring tightness.

Keywords: hamstring tightness, MFR, Popliteal angle, Muscle length, Inch tape, Goniometer, Kinesio taping