Immediate Effects of Pressure Stimulation by Air Cells on the Flexibility of the Gluteus Maximus: A Randomized Controlled Trial

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to clarify the effects of pressure stimulation by air cells on the gluteus maximus muscle on flexibility and posture. The range of motion of hip flexion and pelvic alignment were compared and verified in a compression group using a compression device and a control group. [Participants and Methods] Twenty healthy male subjects participated in this study. Subjects in the compression group received intermittent compression stimulation of the gluteus maximus muscle for 3 minutes in a sitting position. The axillary-knee distance was used as an index of the flexibility of the gluteus maximus muscle, and the angle of anterior pelvic tilt was used as an index of posture. [Results] Interaction and group differences were observed in axilla-to-knee distance after the intervention, but not in the pelvic anteversion angle. [Conclusion] Compression stimulation of the gluteus maximus muscle using a compression device improved flexibility. Further studies are needed to determine the appropriate location and intensity of the stimulation.