Whole-Body Photobiomodulation Use in Professional Soccer Players During a State Championship

Whole-Body Photobiomodulation Use in Professional Soccer Players During a State Championship

This study aims to investigate the effects of whole-body photobiomodulation on professional soccer players during a state championship. The primary question is whether photobiomodulation improves recovery, reduces muscle fatigue, and enhances performance compared to standard training without photobiomodulation.

Detailed Description:

This randomized, controlled clinical trial aims to evaluate the effects of whole-body photobiomodulation (PBM) on recovery and performance in professional soccer players during a state championship.

The intervention will be performed twice weekly on non-consecutive days for 8 weeks, in combination with each athlete's standard training routine. Participants will be allocated to either an active PBM group or a sham PBM group, both following identical procedures to maintain blinding.

Throughout the study, participants will complete scheduled assessments at baseline, during, and after the 8-week period to monitor performance, muscle soreness, and hematological responses. Data will be analyzed using appropriate statistical tests, with a significance level of 5% (two-tailed).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male professional soccer players currently competing in the championship
• Age 18-35 years
• Training frequency ≥5 times per week
• Able to attend all PBM/sham sessions and all assessments during the 8-week intervention
• Signed informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Lower-limb musculoskeletal injury in the last 6 months or currently receiving treatment
• Current use of phototherapy or any other recovery-enhancing modality
• Chronic medical conditions that may affect performance or recovery
• Known sensitivity or contraindication to light-based therapies
• Inability to comply with the intervention or training schedule