An ultrasound analysis of the influence of static stretching on fascicle length variation in the gastrocnemius muscle.

Problem Statement: Muscle injuries such as tears often occur when the tendon in the muscle does not properly stretch. The effects of static stretching (SS) on the fascicle length (FL) of the medial gastrocnemius muscle (MG) have not been adequately studied. Earlier investigations on the impact of SS on FL in different muscles have yielded contradictory results. Purpose: The study aims to determine the association between FL displacement and muscle thickness (MT) variation of MG after SS. Additionally, the study aims to provide a more detailed understanding of how SS affects the muscle elongation (ME), MT, FL and pennation angle (PA) of MG before and after stretching. So, the study provides a more thorough understanding of how stretching affects the mechanical properties of muscles and how it can benefit athletes, the elderly, and patients with certain diseases. Approach: 20-25 years old 32 healthy males were involved in this experimental study. The variables were measured using ultrasonography equipment with a 15-MHz linear transducer and 38-mm field of view. Data were collected before and after a self-administered SS task of 30 seconds, and five stretching sets were completed. Results: The results of the linear regression of the study showed that MT strongly influences FL in MG after SS, R2 = 51%, =.71, p <.001. A centimetre increment in MT increases FL by approximately 1.18 to 2.54 centimetres. Furthermore, SS statistically significantly impacts MG's FL, MT, and PA (p<.001). Conclusions: This research investigated the relationship between muscle thickness (MT) and fascicle length (FL) following self-administered static stretching (SS). MT predicted FL significantly, which affects muscle function and performance. SS increased muscle length, FL, and flexibility, but MT and PA decreased significantly. The study's shortcomings encourage more investigation into SS's long-term effects on muscle properties in diverse populations. These findings influence injury prevention, rehabilitation, and performance enhancement in athletes and physically active people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]