Influences of Self-Myofascial Release Using a Massage Ball on the Glenohumeral Internal Rotation Range of Motion

Background Myofascial release has been recommended for increasing joint range of motion (ROM). However, no study has identified the effects of self-myofascial release using a massage ball during stretching exercises. Purpose This study investigated the effects of self-myofascial release on glenohumeral internal rotation and horizontal adduction ROM using a massage ball during cross-body stretching. Study design Case series study Methods Overall, 18 adults with reduced glenohumeral internal rotation ROM performed self-myofascial release using a massage ball during cross-body stretching. Glenohumeral internal rotation and horizontal adduction ROM were measured pre- and post-intervention. Changes in ROM were analyzed using the paired t-test. Results Glenohumeral internal rotation and horizontal adduction ROM significantly increased after intervention (p<0.05). Conclusions The findings indicate that a combination of myofascial release using a massage ball and stretching improves the glenohumeral joint ROM effectively.