Article ID: JJPTF_2023-17
Objective: Kanshoho (Relaxation method by using stick pressure) is a technique that rapidly and painlessly relaxes muscles through light pressure applied to activated muscles. This study aimed to examine the effect of Kanshoho for muscle relaxation, clarify optimal pressing force and pressing area size, and investigate the influence of individual subject characteristics on Kanshoho muscle relaxation effects.
Methods: Thirty-nine consenting healthy adults performed voluntary seated lateral flexion for 5 minutes with a pressure bar applied to the right lumbar region. Five pressure bar forces (no force, 250 g, 500 g, 750 g, and 1,000 g) and three pressure bar diameters (1 cm, 2 cm, and 3 cm) were used. Lower back muscle hardness was measured immediately before and after exercise using a muscle hardness meter. Measurement value and rate of change in muscle hardness before and after exercise were compared for each pressing force and area condition. The influence of gender, BMI, and pre-intervention muscle stiffness on rate of change was also investigated.
Results: The measurement value of muscle hardness after exercise was lower than before exercise except the no force condition. The rate of change in muscle hardness of before and after exercise on 500 g and 750 g condition exhibited significantly lower than on no force and 250 g condition. The measurement value after exercise was lower than before exercise in all pressing area condition, however, the rate of change at 1 cm and 2 cm sizes showed significantly lower than at 3 cm size. The rate of change was not related to gender, BMI, or pre-intervention muscle stiffness.
Conclusion: A pressing force from 500 to 750 g on an area 1 to 2 cm in diameter produced the most relaxing effect in terms of reduced muscle tension. This Kanshoho technique would be applicable to a wide range of subjects without being affected by gender or body shape.
