Investigating the Effects of Different Soft Tissue Mobilizations on Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness

Investigating the Effects of Different Soft Tissue Mobilizations on Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness and Performance in Recreational Athletes: A Single Blinded, Randomized Controlled Study

Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is associated with the initiation of a new physical activity or a sudden increase in exercise volume and intensity. DOMS also occurs following eccentric exercises such as ballistic stretching, downhill running, weight training and plyometrics. DOMS might prevent performing sports and decreases the performance of professional or recreational athletes. Recently, different soft tissue mobilization applications (massage, foam roller) have been preferred by many athletes to prevent DOMS. However, there is no study comparing the effects of these techniques on DOMS. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to investigate the effects of different soft tissue mobilization practices on DOMS and sportive performance in recreational athletes. In order to achieve this goal, a total of 36 recreational athletes will be included and will be allocated to three groups as foam roller group (n=12), massage group (n=12) and control group (n=12). Demographic data, thermal camera measurements, fatigue level assessments, and performance measurements will be performed. All measurements will be carried out four times as before the application, immediately after the application, after 24 hours and after 48 hours.

After being invited to the study, the demographic data of all participants who agreed to participate in the study will be recorded on a structured form. Participants will be randomly divided into three groups: Massage application group, Foam Roller application group and Control group. Afterwards, thermal imaging, perceived fatigue and pain level, blood lactate level measurements, and vertical jump assessments will be done for the quadriceps femoris muscle. Then, the fatigue protocol will be applied for the quadriceps femoris muscle and five-minute applications will be made according to the groups in which they are randomly separated. Evaluations made in the first applications will be made immediately after the applications, 24 hours and 48 hours later, as the 2nd, 3rd and 4th measurements. The assessor will not know which group the participants are from.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Performing recreational sports at least 1 and at most 3 times a week.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Any musculoskeletal, neurological or other serious health problems experienced in the past six months
• Not willing to participate in the study