Effect of 12-Week Dynamic Stretching of Ankle Plantar Flexors on Joint Flexibility and Musculoskeletal Properties in The Contralateral Muscle.

Abstract

Dynamic stretching (DS) is a conditioning technique commonly used in sports. However, its effects on contralateral joint flexibility and elastic properties of the targeted muscle over several weeks remain unclear. Similarly, its impact on muscle functions, such as force or power exertion, is poorly understood. This study aimed to examine the effects of a 12-week DS program targeting the ankle plantar flexors on the joint flexibility, muscle strength, and elastic properties of the plantar flexors in stretched and contralateral legs. Eighteen healthy young adults (12 males and six females, aged 18-24 years) participated in this study. DS was performed on one leg of the ankle plantar flexors for 12 weeks (3 days weekly), while the other leg served as a non-intervention. Dorsiflexion range of motion (DFROM), muscle stiffness, and ankle plantar flexion strength (rate of torque development and isokinetic muscle strength) were assessed before and after the intervention. The muscle stiffness was measured using shear wave elastography on the gastrocnemius. DFROM significantly increased in both conditions (p < 0.05), whereas gastrocnemius stiffness significantly decreased only in the DS condition (p < 0.05). No significant changes were observed in the non-intervention condition. The ankle plantar flexion rates of torque development and isokinetic strength did not change in either condition. These findings suggest that 12 weeks of DS can reduce muscle stiffness and improve joint flexibility without affecting muscle strength while enhancing contralateral joint flexibility without altering muscle stiffness or strength.