Sensory regulation and mechanical effects of sustained high intensity stretching of the anterior compartment of the thigh.

Background: Ballet dancers, contortionists, gymnasts, or other sportspeople spend long hours performing stretches while training. Although most studies on stretching consider fascia lengthening to be difficult, athletes manage to lengthen their fascia.

Aim: To assess the relationship between lengthening fascial structures of the anterior compartment of the thigh and the self-reported sensation of discomfort and pain during a sustained and repeated high intensity stretch.