Comparative Effects of Static Stretching versus Stretching with Traction on Hamstrings Flexibility in Patients with Backache; A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract Background: Patients with lower backache commonly complain of hamstrings tightness which is responsible for altering biomechanics of the lower limb and spine. Reduced muscular flexibility affects the functional capacity of an individual and also damages the musculoskeletal system as a result of overuse. Objective: The objective is to compare the effects of static stretching versus stretching with traction on hamstrings flexibility in patients with backache. Methods: A single-blinded, controlled trial was conducted on 44 subjects who presented with primary complaints of back pain, hamstrings tightness and pain/tenderness in the back of the thigh. Group A was treated with static stretching and Group B with stretching with traction (Mulligan). Straight leg raise, 90-90 test, and visual analogue scale were used to calculate the scores in the two groups. An independent t-test was calculated to measure the difference between the treatment outcomes of the two groups while paired sample t-test was used to measure the differences within the groups. Results: Both groups showed significant results with both tests and pain scores. When both the groups were compared, stretching with traction showed a significant difference from static stretching in relieving hamstrings tightness in patients with backache. Conclusion: Stretching of hamstrings with traction is found to be a significant treatment option as compared to static stretching as the participants showed a significant difference in outcome measures in relieving hamstrings tightness in patients having backache. *Corresponding Author: Sahreen Anwar, Independent Medical College, Faisalabad, Pakistan; Email: sahreenanwar@yahoo.com Citation: Nasir R.H., R. Tabassum, S. Anwar, M. Chaudhary, T. Mukhtar, W. Parveen. 2021. Comparative effects of static stretching versus stretching with traction on hamstrings flexibility in patients with backache; a randomized controlled trial. The Healer Journal of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Sciences, 1(1):2-8.