Extensive research on hamstring flexibility highlights its complex nature, necessitating deeper biomechanical exploration. This study analyzes sleep and sitting positional patterns among multidisciplinary researchers with Hamstring Tightness (HT) in an Indian Institution. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 409 researchers (N = 409) in 2023 and 2024. Data collection included demographic details, hamstring flexibility assessment via two standard non-invasive tests—Active Straight Leg Raise (ASLR) and Active Total Knee Extension (ATKE) for both the left (L) and right (R) sides—and concurrent lower back muscle activity measurement using pressure gauge. A multiple-response picture questionnaire was used to assess preferred sleep and sitting behavior preference, followed by biomechanical analysis using trunk-thigh angles. Among the participants, 382 (93%) exhibited bilateral HT. Spearman’s correlation analysis showed a moderate correlation between the left and right sides for both ASLR and ATKE (r = 0.66; p < 0.01). All test groups were negatively correlated with the Lower Back pressure Difference (LBD), indicating that individuals with higher severity of tightness may exhibit reduced compensatory pressure variation in the lower back region. Multiple response analysis identified the top five preferred sleep and sitting positions. Biomechanical analysis of the top three sleep positions and the top sitting position, based on trunk-thigh angle, revealed a tendency to accommodate HT. The findings reveal a predominant pattern of sleep and sitting positions among multidisciplinary researchers with HT at a single institution, suggesting functional accommodation through positional behavior. Not applicable.
Supriya et al. (Fri,) studied this question.