The Immediate Effect of Graston Technique on Ankle Range of Motion and Vertical Jump Performance in Athletes

Abstract

Aim: A limited number of studies have demonstrated the effects of Graston and static stretching on different muscle groups and sports performance. The study aimed to investigate the immediate effect of the Graston technique on vertical jump performance and ankle range of motion in athletes. Material and Method: A quasi-experimental study included 30 participants aged 18-40 among active, licensed basketball players between January 2023 and May 2023. The 30 participants were divided into a graston group (n=15) and a static stretching group (n=15). A vertical jump test was performed for performance after the ankle joint range of motion was measured with a goniometer. Behind the first assessment session, a Graston or static stretching was applied to the groups. Thereafter, the vertical jump performance and goniometer measurement was repeated. Results: Graston and static stretching had similar results in vertical jump performance (p<0.05). Graston on the gastrocnemius, soleus muscles and Achilles tendon was superior to static stretching, particularly in left foot dorsiflexion (p<0.05). Conclusion: Graston application can be preferred to increase vertical jumping and ankle range of motion performance in athletes with similar and superior effects to static stretching. Including Graston and static stretching in the rehabilitation protocols can provide an effective range of motion and jumping performance.

Keywords

• Athletes
• instrument-assisted mobilization
• jump
• stretching

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