Acute Effects of Gastrocnemius/Soleus Self-Myofascial Release vs. Dynamic Stretching on Closed Chain Dorsiflexion

Context:Limited ankle dorsiflexion (DF) range of motion (ROM) has been correlated with decreased flexibility of the gastrocnemius/soleus (GS) complex. Decreased ankle DF ROM can lead to an increase in lower extremity injuries, e.g. acute ankle sprains, Achilles tendinopathy.Objective:The purpose of this study was to determine whether a single application of the intervention to the GS complex via multi-directional self-myofascial release using a foam roller (FR), multi-planar dynamic stretch performed in downward dog (DD), or a combination of both techniques (CT) acutely improved ankle DF.Design:Subjects were assigned to groups via random card selection. Investigators provided verbal cues as needed to yield correct performance of interventions. Both interventions were performed twice for 1 minute using a dynamic walking rest of 100 feet at a self-selected pace between interventions. Statistical analyses were completed using a one-way ANOVA, at α level ≤ .05.Setting:A convenience sample study.Participants:F...