Abstract
This study aimed to review systematically the available evidence on the effects of stretching exercise on musculoskeletal function of the elderly individuals. The search was performed in 4 databases. Twenty-four controlled clinical trials were included and the methodological qualities were measured using the JADAD scale. Stretching exercise improved gait speed (P = .04), range of motion of hip uniarticular flexors (P = .02), and ankle dorsiflexion (P = .003) as compared with control groups. Stretching -exercise can be considered as an intervention for elderly individuals in counteracting age-related decline in mobility. However, it is suggested new randomized clinical trials, focusing on the parameters to prescribe stretching exercise.