A comparison between static and dynamic stretching on hip joint mobility in athletes

Abstract

Background: Optimal hip mobility in athletes is essential for adequate bodily movements and performance of sport techniques. An evidence-based study on this subject was considered relevant to compare the possible stretching techniques, aiming to optimise hip joint mobility. Research Question: In athletes, how does static stretching (SS) affect hip joint mobility when compared with dynamic stretching (DS)? This research question was formulated using the PICO framework: (P) athletes who need to improve their hip joint mobility, (I) static stretching techniques, (C) dynamic stretching techniques, (O) finding evidence to suggest if and how static stretching compared to dynamic stretching affects hip joint mobility. Search method: A comprehensive review of existing literature was undertaken by searching electronic databases and reviewing references manually. Various criteria were applied to refine the results, with a focus on systematic reviews (SRs), meta- analyses, and randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published in English. These studies investigated the effects of static stretching (SS) and dynamic stretching (DS) on athletes' hip mobility. Five studies, including one SR and four RCTs, were selected and critically assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool. Results: The SR and one RCT concluded that SS is superior to DS for enhancing hip mobility. However, two other RCTs reported that DS was more effective than SS. The last RCT found no significant difference between the two stretching techniques. Conclusions: The findings suggested that DS used alone or in combination with SS improves hip mobility, however, SS alone does not produce a similarly significant effect. Recommendations: The use of SS is more efficient in conjunction with DS. Future research should prioritize local studies with larger samples, follow-ups, and enhanced statistical analyses. Guidelines including a stretching regimen for different sport disciplines can be developed.