Effects of a Massage Protocol in Tensiomyographic and Myotonometric Proprieties

Albert Pérez-Bellmunt, Noé Labata-Lezaun, Luis Llurda-Almuzara, Jacobo Rodríguez-Sanz, Vanessa González-Rueda, Elena Bueno-Gracia, Derya Celik, Carlos López-de-Celis, Albert Pérez-Bellmunt, Noé Labata-Lezaun, Luis Llurda-Almuzara, Jacobo Rodríguez-Sanz, Vanessa González-Rueda, Elena Bueno-Gracia, Derya Celik, Carlos López-de-Celis

Abstract

Background: Pre-competition massage is usually used to improve athletic performance and reduce risk of injury. Despite its usual use, the effects of pre-competition massage on neuromuscular function have barely been studied. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of the pre-competition massage over the gastrocnemius neuromuscular function.

Method: The study is a quasi-experimental clinical trial thirty healthy athletes were enrolled in the study. Subjects received an intervention in one leg (experimental), consisting of a massage, and no intervention in the opposite leg (control). From all values of neuromuscular function, the following were analyzed: contraction time (Tc) and maximal displacement (Dm) by tensiomyography, and stiffness and tone by myotonometry.

Results: Main effects of pre-competition massage on neuromuscular function include a significant (p < 0.05) increase in Tc and Dm variables, as well as a reduction in stiffness and tone.

Conclusion: Data shows an increase in Tc and maximal radial displacement (Dm) variables, as well as a reduction in stiffness and tone. More quality studies are needed to draw clear conclusions about the effects of pre-competition massage.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03941067.

Keywords: athletic performance; massage; muscle tonus; musculoskeletal manipulations; physical therapy; sport.

Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
(a) Tensiomyography; (b) Myotonometry.

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