Date of Award

Fall 12-1-2008

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Athletic Training

First Advisor

John W. Schrader

Second Advisor

Kellie C. Huxel

Third Advisor

Timothy J. Demchak

Abstract

Studv design: Single-blinded, pre-treatment/post-treatment, randomized groups. Objective: Determine the effectiveness of a single session of Graston instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (GISTM), stretching, and GISTM plus stretching on active knee extension (AKE) in healthy individuals with limited motion. Background: Individuals need adequate ROM in order to complete every day activities. Stretching and soft tissue mobilization are often used to increase ROM. The effects of Graston Technique on humans have not been widely studied in experimental situations. Methods: Forty participants (28M, 12F, 25.0±5.7 years, 1.7±0.09 m, 85.76±18.59 kg, mean ROM deficit of 38°±12°) randomly assigned to four different treatment groups: measurement only (MO), stretch only (SO), GISTM only (GO), and GISTM plus stretch (GS ). After a 5-minute warm-up, pre-treatment measures of AKE were collected. Depending on group assignment, participants received a 10-minute GISTM treatment or laid prone. In addition, participants were stretched or laid supine for approximately 3 minutes. Post-treatment AKE measure were then taken. Results: AKE deficit decreased (p=.005) from 38.12°± 12° to 33°±12°. There was difference in change of motion between treatment groups (p=.275). The correlation between change in motion and patient perception was r=.509. Participants felt their ROM improved more when they received some sort of treatment compared to those who were just measured. Conclusion: Motion increased in all groups equally regardless of the treatment (stretch only, GISTM only, or GISTM plus stretch) received. However, participants that received a treatment felt that their ROM increased.

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