Effect of knee and hip joint positions on passive stiffness of the rectus femoris and vastus lateralis in healthy individuals.
Victor Hugo de Souza Ribeiro, Leandro Gomes de Jesus Ferreira, Jeam Marcel Geremia et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial examined the passive stiffness of the rectus femoris and vastus lateralis muscles in 36 healthy young adults under various knee flexion positions. The study found that the SUP60 position resulted in significantly higher stiffness values for both muscles (p < 0.001), with superficial regions consistently exhibiting greater stiffness than deeper regions.
Key findings
- The SUP60 position showed the highest stiffness for both RF and VL (p < 0.001).
- Superficial muscle regions were consistently stiffer than intermediate and deep regions (p < 0.001).
- Men exhibited significantly higher stiffness values than women (p < 0.001).
Why it matters
Understanding the factors influencing muscle stiffness can aid clinicians in assessing musculoskeletal function and tailoring rehabilitation strategies. The findings may inform exercise prescriptions and clinical assessments of muscle performance.