Effects of Self-Stretching on Body Functions

Abstract

Here, we examined chronological changes in physical flexibility and self-efficacy caused by self-stretching, using active individual muscle stretching (AID). Our subjects included nine adults (six men, three women; mean age, 31.9±7.5 years) who were not receiving any treatment for orthopedic diseases. The subjects performed six types of AID twice a week for 10 weeks. Values measured at the start, middle, and end of the study were compared. Changes in subjects with chronic low back pain were also investigated. The results showed significantly elevated sit and reach flexibility values in the middle and at the end of the study compared with those before the start of the study; however, no significant difference was observed in self-efficacy. In the two subjects with chronic low back pain, pain disappeared or subsided. These findings suggest that these stretching conditions improved physical flexibility and could affect chronic low back pain.