The influence of isometric exercise and passive stretch on hip joint motion.

A method was designed to compare the effects of isometric contractions and passive stretch on modifying joint range of motion in 30 normal men. Subjects were randomly assigned into a control group, a passive stretch group, or an isometric contraction group. Each subject assumed a left sidelying position on the force table. Stabilization was applied to the pelvis and left lower extremity. The cuff, to which the force cable was attached, was applied to the right lower extremity. Force measurements produced by the isometric contractions or passive stretch procedures were stored on computer tape. The results of the mean differences in pelvifemoral angle measurements indicated that both treatment groups significantly increased their range of passive hip flexion with the knee extended when compared to the control group. Comparisons between the two treatment groups indicated that the isometric contraction and passive stretch procedures had significant and similar effects.