Published Paper Details:

Background of the study: Flexibility is a physiological characteristic that allows an individual to execute voluntary movements of maximum joint angular amplitude within morphological limits, free of pain and restrictions. The prevention of musculoskeletal injuries and improvement in muscle movement and performance depend on body flexibility. The purpose of this study was to analyse the prevalence of flexibility among college students. Methods: A total of 700 students in which 68 students were excluded and 632 students are included. Subjects were assessed for joint flexibility by using the measurements of joint range of motion by Norkin and White. The inclusion and exclusion data were female students aged between 17 to 25 years & recent fracture and sprains, history of neurological problem, recent surgeries. The major muscles tested for flexibility are trapezius, pectorals major, hip flexors, rectus femoris, hamstrings and calf muscles as these muscles commonly cause the restriction identified with stretching pain for each muscle. Statistical Analyses were conducted according to gender, age, body mass index value (normal-overweight-obese), and the results of muscle flexibility stretch test. Result: In the overall sample 9.17% of students having pectoral muscle tightness; 22% of students having upper trapezius muscle tightness; 38% of students having hamstring muscle tightness; 18.2% of students having calf muscle tightness; 3.32% of students having adductor muscle tightness and 9.33 % of students having rectus femoris muscle tightness. Conclusion: This study confirms that the flexibility of the major muscle is poor because of their daily activities, BMI and age process. Poor flexibility may leads do poor posture and some musculoskeletal problems. This study helps to educate them to do the regular physical activities in their daily life.