Gastrocinemius Function Massage on Lower Extemity Spasticity

The purpose of gastrocnemius massage is to alleviate muscle stiffness in the gastrocnemius muscle and enhance mobility in the foot and ankle of the individuals involved. During the GFM application, the patient assumes a prone posture on a suitable treatment bed. The therapist positions themselves behind the patient's side and secures the patient's foot between their hip and ilium.The therapist firmly holds the gastrocnemius muscle using both hands and applies pressure to the ankle, causing it to move in the direction of dorsiflexion. Simultaneously, the therapist applies mobilisation in the cranial direction, following the same path as the gastrocnemius muscle fibres, using both hands. Afterwards, the therapist gently pulls the arm and trunk backwards until the foot and gastrocnemius muscle become relaxed. The application is sustained in a rhythmic manner . We will apply this massage aproximately 10 min to experimental group.

The sham application was conducted when the patient was lying face down, with the hands placed on the gastrocnemius muscle without any movement. We will apply this application aproximately 10 min to experimental group.