Short-Term Effects of Muscle Energy Technique Versus Neurodynamic Technique on Hamstring Flexibility Among DPT Students

Abstract

Background: Hamstring tightness is prevalent among young adults, particularly physical therapy students, leading to compromised flexibility and increased injury risk. This study compared the short-term effects of Muscle Energy Technique (MET) and Neurodynamic Sliding on hamstring flexibility. Objective: To determine which intervention is more effective for improving hamstring flexibility in the short term among Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students. Methods: A pre- and post-experimental study was conducted on 60 DPT students (age 18–25 years) with hamstring tightness ≥15° on the Active Knee Extension (AKE) test. Participants were randomly assigned to Group A (MET; n=30) or Group B (Neurodynamic Sliding; n=30). Interventions were administered three times per week for four weeks. Hamstring flexibility was assessed using the AKE test and Sit and Reach test before and after intervention. Data were analyzed using SPSS 22 with paired and independent t-tests (p<0.05). Results: Both groups showed significant improvements in hamstring flexibility. The MET group demonstrated mean improvements of 4.15 cm in sit-and-reach and 34.67° in AKE right leg. The Neurodynamic group improved by 5.13 cm in sit-and-reach and 27.87° in AKE right leg. Between-group analysis revealed no significant difference in sit-and-reach (p=0.209) or AKE right leg (p=0.191), but a significant difference was found in AKE left leg (p=0.024). Conclusion: Both Muscle Energy Technique and Neurodynamic Sliding effectively improve hamstring flexibility in the short term among DPT students. Although comparable overall results were observed, both techniques can be used interchangeably based on clinical presentation and therapist preference.