Effects of simultaneous short-term neuromuscular electrical stimulation and static stretching on calf muscles

Abstract

[Purpose] The simultaneous application of static stretching and neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) to calf muscles may enhance physiological parameters in young and healthy individuals; however, the efficacy of this intervention and potential sex variation remain to be elucidated. The present study aimed to investigate these aspects. [Participants and Methods] Thirty healthy university students (15 males and 15 females) participated in this study. All participants simultaneously underwent static stretching and NMES of the calf muscles for 4 min while lying on an upright and tilted table. The mean differences in the dorsiflexion angle (DFA), finger-floor distance (FFD), and straight leg raising (SLR) angle before and after the intervention were calculated. Sex variations were assessed using a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). [Results] The DFA, FFD, and SLR angle exhibited significant effects on time. No significant sex variations were observed between the groups. [Conclusion] Simultaneous static stretching and NMES of the calf muscles potentially enhanced the DFA, FFD, and SLR angle in healthy university students, irrespective of sex.