The immediate effect of different calf muscle stretching techniques on ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and dynamic balance in women workers wearing high-heeled shoes

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine the immediate effect of different calf muscle stretching techniques on ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and dynamic balance in women workers wearing high-heeled shoes. Methods: Comparing the effects of dynamic stretching and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation stretching (PNF stretching) in 28 volunteers aged 21-45 years who had worn high-heeled shoes of minimum 5 centimeters, 20 hours per week for at least 1 year. Ankle dorsiflexion range of motion in weight bearing lunge position and Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) were performed before and after each technique of stretching. Results: The results showed ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and SEBT score significantly increased after both stretching techniques (p<0.01) with no significant difference of mean change between both stretching techniques. Conclusion: PNF stretching and dynamic stretching can increase ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and dynamic balance. Therefore, both techniques of stretching exercise program should be recommended to female wearing high-heeled shoes to increase ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and dynamic balance. Bull Chiang Mai Assoc Med Sci 2016; 49(1): 90-99. Doi: 10.14456/jams.2016.8