Comparative analysis of Muscle Energy Techniques and Hamstring Nordic Lower training on hamstring tightness and agility run test in young athletes

Background: Hamstring tightness is a common issue among young athletes and can lead to injuries and reduced performance. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of Muscle Energy Technique (MET), specifically Post-Isometric Relaxation (PIR) and Post-Facilitation Stretch (PFS), with Hamstring Nordic Lower (HNL) training in addressing hamstring tightness and improving agility run test. Methods: A triple-blinded randomized controlled trial with a crossover design was conducted having trial registration number NCT06012344. Sixty young athletes of provincial club with hamstring tightness were randomly assigned to three groups: Group A (PIR, PFS, HNL), Group B (PFS, HNL, PIR), and Group C (HNL, PIR, PFS). Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and repeated measures analysis of variance (RM-ANOVA). Results: Both PIR and PFS interventions demonstrated significant improvements in hamstring flexibility and physical performance measured in context to agility run test with significant improvement. PFS shows more significant improvement followed by PIR and least improvement showed by HNL. Conclusion: The findings suggest that PFS shows more significant improvement followed by PIR interventions, as part of Muscle Energy Technique, are effective in releasing hamstring tightness and improving physical performance in young athletes. However, HNL training alone did not show superior effectiveness compared to the MET techniques. These results provide valuable insights for clinicians and sports professionals in designing interventions for hamstring tightness in young athletes.