Effects on Mechanical Properties, Joint Range of Motion, and Grip Strength of Forearm Muscles Depending on Wrapping Direction of the Floss Band

Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate changes in mechanical properties, range of motion, and grip strength of the forearm muscle depending on the wrapping direction of the floss band. Design: Single-blind crossover study. Methods: Thirteen participants were randomly assigned to different applications of the floss band: Intervention A applied the floss band in the right spiral direction, Intervention B applied the floss band in the left spiral direction, and Intervention C performed the exercise alone. The participants then performed concentric exercises of the wrist flexors using a Flex-Bar. All participants used their dominant right hand, and pre- and post-intervention assessments were conducted. To analyze differences in changes between groups pre- and post-intervention, all results were subjected to one-way analysis of variance, followed by Scheffé’s test for post hoc analysis. The paired sample t test was used to analyze differences between pre- and post- intervention within the groups. Results: Regarding the mechanical properties of the flexor carpi ulnaris muscle, Interventions A and B significantly improved muscle tone and stiffness compared with Intervention C (p < 0.05). Moreover, Intervention A exhibited a significant decrease in decrement (muscle elasticity) compared with Intervention B (p < 0.05). Interventions A and B also resulted in significant improvements in grip strength compared with Intervention C (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The right spiral direction of the floss band tended to increase muscle elasticity compared with the left spiral direction. Therefore, in future studies, this wrapping direction should be selected when using the floss band to increase muscle elasticity.