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2022, Vol. 26 ›› Issue (8): 1149-1153Exercises for activating foot valgus muscle: reciprocal inhibitory effects on antagonistic muscle elasticity, tension and hardnessZheng Pei1, Xing Xinyang2, Huo Hongfeng1, 3
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Exercise for activating foot valgus muscle is an important intervention approach in the field of foot and ankle rehabilitation. It has been widely used in rehabilitation practice; however, its interactive effect on antagonist muscles is still unclear. OBJECTIVE: To explore the reciprocal inhibitory effect of foot varus muscle activation exercise on antagonistic muscle. METHODS: Eighteen college student volunteers were selected. The elastic band was used for the isometric exercises of foot eversion. Muscle elasticity, tension and hardness of the marked area were measured using MyotonPRO before and after the intervention, and pain intensity and ankle dorsiflexion activity were measured. The data were analyzed and processed by t-test. The implementation of the study protocol complied with the relevant ethical requirements of Hebei Normal University, and all subjects signed an informed consent form prior to the participation in the trial. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: After intervention, muscle tension oscillation frequency was significantly decreased (P < 0.05); the hardness score and muscle elasticity score were significantly increased (P < 0.05); the pain score in tenderness area was significantly lower (P < 0.05); and the dorsal malleolus flexion activity was significantly improved (P < 0.05). To conclude, foot varus activation exercises can immediately reduce muscle tension and hardness, enhance muscle elasticity, and improve exercise fatigue and performance. This reciprocal inhibitory intervention have a potential to reduce the pain score, improve ankle dorsiflexion range of motion, relieve pain, and reduce the risk of sports injury. Key words:reciprocal inhibition, antagonistic muscle, myofascial, muscle characteristics, foot valgus |