title: Ankle-Dorsiflexion Range of Motion After Ankle Self-Stretching Using a Strap.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  A variety of ankle self-stretching exercises have been recommended to improve ankle-dorsiflexion range of motion (DFROM) in individuals with limited ankle dorsiflexion. A strap can be applied to stabilize the talus and facilitate anterior glide of the distal tibia at the talocrural joint during ankle self-stretching exercises. Novel ankle self-stretching using a strap (SSS) may be a useful method of improving ankle DFROM.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To compare the effects of 2 ankle-stretching techniques (static stretching versus SSS) on ankle DFROM.
  
  
  METHODS
  Randomized controlled clinical trial.
  
  
  METHODS
  University research laboratory.
  
  
  METHODS
  Thirty-two participants with limited active dorsiflexion (<20°) while sitting (14 women and 18 men) were recruited.
  
  
  METHODS
  The participants performed 2 ankle self-stretching techniques (static stretching and SSS) for 3 weeks. Active DFROM (ADFROM), passive DFROM (PDFROM), and the lunge angle were measured. An independent t test was used to compare the improvements in these values before and after the 2 stretching interventions. The level of statistical significance was set at α = .05.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Active DFROM and PDFROM were greater in both stretching groups after the 3-week interventions. However, ADFROM, PDFROM, and the lunge angle were greater in the SSS group than in the static-stretching group (P < .05).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Ankle SSS is recommended to improve ADFROM, PDFROM, and the lunge angle in individuals with limited DFROM.
authors.affiliation: Laboratory of Kinetic Ergocise Based on Movement Analysis, Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health Science, Yonsei University, Wonju, Kangwon, South Korea.
authors.forename: In-cheol
authors.initials: IC
authors.lastname: Jeon
authors.affiliation: Laboratory of Kinetic Ergocise Based on Movement Analysis, Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health Science, Yonsei University, Wonju, Kangwon, South Korea.
authors.forename: Oh-yun
authors.initials: OY
authors.lastname: Kwon
authors.affiliation: Laboratory of Kinetic Ergocise Based on Movement Analysis, Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health Science, Yonsei University, Wonju, Kangwon, South Korea.
authors.forename: Chung-Hwi
authors.initials: CH
authors.lastname: Yi
authors.affiliation: Laboratory of Kinetic Ergocise Based on Movement Analysis, Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health Science, Yonsei University, Wonju, Kangwon, South Korea.
authors.forename: Heon-Seock
authors.initials: HS
authors.lastname: Cynn
authors.affiliation: Laboratory of Kinetic Ergocise Based on Movement Analysis, Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health Science, Yonsei University, Wonju, Kangwon, South Korea.
authors.forename: Ui-jae
authors.initials: UJ
authors.lastname: Hwang
mesh_terms: D000842:Ankle / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D052580:Muscle Stretching Exercises / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods*; D011187:Posture; D011446:Prospective Studies; D016059:Range of Motion, Articular; D055815:Young Adult
keywords: injury prevention; limited ankle dorsiflexion; rehabilitation