the effect of PNF stretching on recurrence of hamstring injury in young adults athletes : A experimental Study

Hamstring-strain injuries are one of the most common athletic injuries treated by physiotherapists. Acute hamstring strains can occur with high-speed running or with excessive hamstring lengthening. Acute hamstring strain injuries can also be classified by severity of pain, weakness and loss of range of motion. The purpose of this clinical observation is to examine the risk factors contributing to such a high recurrence rate of the injury and propose a unique rehabilitation strategy addressing these factors in order to decrease the rate of reinjury. The aim of this study is to find out the efficacy of PNF stretching exercise in treating the hamstring injury and prevention of re- injury. Subjects will be recruited for this study from the university campus. A total of 20 subjects between 18 - 25 years were included in this study with their mean age group in Experimental group. The study consists of two groups (A and B). Group A consisted of 10 subjects who will perform PNF self stretch. Group B consisted of 10 subjects who will be given therapist applied PNF stretch. Both the groups will perform stretching 5 times a week for 4 weeks. Four repetitions per session with relaxation period of 15 sec and stretch period of 15 sec.  This study is an attempt to find out any significant difference between therapist applied PNF stretch and self stretch groups and this study will provide compelling evidence that a four week program of hamstring stretching exercise can impact on recovery, prevention of re-injury in athletic training and sports in young adults. The effect of stretching exercises in treating hamstring injuries depends on understanding the mechanism of injury, the grade of injury, and individual factors. A treatment plan that addresses all these factors is important for the speedy recovery.