Comparison of immediate effects of myofascial release and fascial distortion model on the range of motion, pain pressure threshold, and balance in healthy adults.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Many fascial therapies have been demonstrated to positively affect the range of motion, pain sensitivity, balance, daily functioning, and participation in social activities. Among these therapies, myofascial release has been extensively studied and widely used in clinical trials. The fascial distortion model was recently introduced, and it has received much attention due to its rapid onset of action and ease of application. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to compare the effects of myofascial release and the fascial distortion model on range of motion, pain sensitivity, and balance, with the goal of helping therapists select the most appropriate treatment. METHODS: Sixteen healthy adults were included in a prospective, randomized, single-blind study. The subjects were randomly assigned to either the myofascial release or fascial distortion model groups. The outcome measures were functional reach test, pain pressure threshold, straight leg-raising test angle, and finger floor distance. RESULTS: The myofascial release and fascial distortion model groups showed significantly increased straight leg-raising angle and finger floor distance, but no between-group differences were observed (p > .05). The fascial distortion model group demonstrated significantly better pain control (p < .05), which was also better than in the myofascial release group (p < .05). The myofascial release group showed significantly improved balance control (p < .05); however, there was no difference between the two groups (p > .05). CONCLUSIONS: Either myofascial release or fascial distortion model can be chosen to improve the range of motion. However, if pain sensitivity is the goal, it is expected that the fascial distortion model will be more effective.