Effects of foam rolling and stretching on muscle flexibility in athletes

Acute Effects of Foam Rolling and Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Stretching During Warm-Up on Muscle Flexibility, Strength and Pain Threshold in Amateur Athletes

NA · Acibadem University · NCT06240013

This study tests whether foam rolling or a specific type of stretching can improve muscle flexibility and reduce pain for amateur athletes during warm-up.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment80 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 30 Years
SexAll
SponsorAcibadem University (other)
Locations1 site (Istanbul, None Selected)
Trial IDNCT06240013 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates how foam rolling and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching affect muscle flexibility, strength, and pain threshold in amateur athletes during warm-up. It aims to determine the differences in effectiveness between these two techniques, focusing on the hamstring muscle, which is crucial for athletic performance and injury prevention. The research addresses a gap in the literature regarding the acute effects of these interventions on muscle performance, as previous studies have not conclusively established the best stretching methods for athletes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are amateur athletes aged 18-30 without a history of recent hamstring injuries or orthopedic issues.

Not a fit: Patients with hypermobility, recent hamstring injuries, or diagnosed orthopedic problems may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance warm-up protocols for amateur athletes, improving their performance and reducing injury risk.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically comparing foam rolling and PNF stretching, previous studies have shown positive effects of stretching techniques on muscle performance, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Being between the ages of 18-30
* Being an amateur athlete

Exclusion Criteria:

* Hypermobility
* History of hamstring injury in the last 6 months
* Diagnosed orthopedic problems
* Surgery in the lower extremity or spine
* Back pain
* Presence of systemic or neurological disorders

Where this trial is running

Istanbul, None Selected

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Athletes, Muscle Stretching Exercises, Pain Threshold, Range of Motion, Articular, Muscle Strength

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.