Investigation of the Effect of Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization Technique in Individuals With Asymptomatic Dynamic Knee Valgus

STUDY DESIGN: Randomized controlled study OBJECTIVES: To investigate the contribution of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) applied to gluteus medius (GMed) to isokinetic strength, femoral internal rotation (FIR), frontal plan projection angle (FPPA) and postural stability (PS) in individuals with asymptomatic dynamic knee valgus (DDV). BACKGROUND: In the literature effect of IASTM on force production and performance has been examined with exercise, and results of the studies are contradictory. Studies investigating the effects of IASTM without exercise and at recommended dose are needed. METHODS: 44 participants with DDV (21,39±1,79) were randomized to be control group (CG=22) and graston group (GG=22). First day, participants' FIR, FPPA with single leg squat test, dynamic and static PS on involved leg evaluations were completed. Second day, eccentric strength of GMed was measured by isokinetic test. IASTM application was applied 6 weeks, twice a week, 5 minutes, using Graston Technique® instruments. CG has not been attempted. Evaluations were repeated at the end of treatment.