Comparative analysis of ultrasound changes in the vastus lateralis muscle following myofascial release and thermotherapy: A pilot study

• Published in: Journal of bodywork and movement therapies 2015-04, Vol.19 (2), p.327-336
• Main Authors: Ichikawa, Kazuna, PT, MSc, PhD Candidate, OMPT, Takei, Hitoshi, PT, PhD, OMPT, Usa, Hideyuki, PT, PhD, OMPT, Mitomo, Shoh, PT, MSc, PhD Candidate, Ogawa, Daisuke, PT, MSc, PhD Candidate, OMPT
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adult; Fascia - physiology; Humans; Hyperthermia, Induced - methods; Male; Motion of the deep fascia; Muscle stiffness; Myofascial release; Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation; Pilot Projects; Quadriceps Muscle - diagnostic imaging; Quadriceps Muscle - physiology; Therapy, Soft Tissue - methods; Ultrasonography; Ultrasound
• ISSN: 1360-8592; 1532-9283
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2014.11.018

Summary Objectives This study aimed to compare the effects of myofascial release (MFR) and hot pack therapy (HPT) on fascial gliding and flexibility of the vastus lateralis muscle. Methods Three treatments were applied to the left vastus lateralis muscles of each participant (12 healthy males): MFR for 4 min, superficial HPT for 10 min, and superficial HPT for 20 min. Deep fascial motion was measured by B-mode ultrasound, whereas muscle stiffness was measured by real-time elastography (RTE) and a durometer before and after the interventions. Results Only MFR resulted in changes in both deep fascial motion and muscle stiffness measured by RTE. Durometer-measured muscle stiffness revealed changes following both MFR and 20-min HPT but not 10-min HPT. Conclusions HPT may produce only superficial effects. Because MFR improved all measured parameters, continuous stretching and pressure are probably important for improving fascial gliding and flexibility of the vastus lateralis muscle.