Comparison between static stretching and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation on hamstring flexibility: systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: Both static stretching (SS) and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) have been widely investigated, it is believed that PNF might have an advantage over SS because of its possible neural mechanisms. However, it remains uncertain which one is the most effective strategy.

Objective: The aim of the present review was to compare the effects of SS and PNF stretching on hamstring flexibility.

Methods: The search included the databases Cochrane CENTRAL, MEDLINE (via Pubmed), Lilacs, PEDro, and manual search. Studies that have compared SS and PNF on hamstring flexibility in sedentary and recreationally active young adults were included. In contrast, studies with samples composed by children, elderly, and people with any dysfunction/disease were excluded.

Results: From the 757 studies identified, 19 were included in the systematic review, but only 12 had suitable data for the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis was divided into two types of tests: straight leg raise (SLR) and knee extension test (KET). Results from the SLR analysis showed no difference between SS and PNF either chronically (−2.56; 95%CI: −7.43 to 2.32) or acutely (−3.32; 95%CI: −11.58 to 4.93). Regarding the KET analysis, there was no difference between groups (0.93; 95%CI: −1.39 to 3.24).

Conclusion: In conclusion, both SS and PNF stretching can be effective in increasing hamstring flexibility.

Keywords:

• Joint range of motion
• muscle stretching exercise
• lower limb

Acknowledgements

We thank the University library team for their assistance in obtaining the literature.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.