Effectiveness of myofascial release technique versus static stretching exercises on pain, muscle soreness and flexibility among college level kabaddi players with lumbar strain

Kabaddi is a high-intensity contact sport that places significant physical demands on players, often leading to musculoskeletal injuries, especially low back pain and stiffness . These issues can impair performance and, if untreated, cause long-term problems. Physiotherapy techniques like myofascial release, static stretching, and cryotherapy have shown individual benefits in reducing pain, improving flexibility, and aiding recovery . However, limited research has assessed their combined effectiveness in kabaddi players. This study aims to fill that gap by evaluating and comparing these methods to develop effective injury management and recovery strategies for kabaddi athletes.