Acute Effects of Upper Arm Tissue Flossing on Upper Extremity Performance and Power

Acute Effects of Upper Arm Tissue Flossing on Closed-Chain Upper Extremity Stability and Explosive Upper-Body Power: A Randomized Sham-Controlled Trial

This randomized sham-controlled trial investigates the acute effects of upper arm tissue flossing on upper extremity performance and power in healthy adults. Tissue flossing is a compression-based intervention that involves wrapping an elastic band around a limb for a short period while performing movement exercises.

Twenty-eight healthy participants are randomly assigned to either an active tissue flossing group or a sham flossing group. The intervention is applied to the dominant upper arm. Upper extremity performance is assessed before the intervention and at 2 and 15 minutes after the intervention using the Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test (CKCUEST) and the Seated Medicine Ball Throw (SMBT).

The study aims to determine whether a single session of upper arm tissue flossing can produce immediate improvements in upper extremity stability, functional performance, and explosive power compared with a sham intervention

Tissue flossing is a relatively new technique used in sports and rehabilitation settings. It involves applying a specialized elastic compression band around a limb while the individual performs active movements. Proposed mechanisms include temporary vascular occlusion followed by reperfusion, alterations in neuromuscular function, and changes in fascial tissue mobility. Although tissue flossing has been investigated for lower extremity performance and range of motion outcomes, evidence regarding its effects on upper extremity performance remains limited.

The purpose of this study is to examine the acute effects of upper arm tissue flossing on upper extremity functional performance and power in healthy adults. This study is designed as a randomized, sham-controlled, parallel-group trial.

A total of 28 healthy volunteers are randomly allocated to either an active tissue flossing group or a sham flossing group. Participants in the active intervention group receive tissue flossing applied to the dominant upper arm using a standardized compression protocol. Participants in the sham group receive a loosely applied band that does not provide therapeutic compression. During band application, participants perform standardized upper extremity movements.

Outcome measurements are obtained at baseline, 2 minutes after intervention, and 15 minutes after intervention. Upper extremity functional performance is assessed using the Closed Kinetic Chain Upper Extremity Stability Test (CKCUEST). Explosive upper-body power is assessed using the Seated Medicine Ball Throw (SMBT).

The primary objective is to determine whether upper arm tissue flossing produces immediate improvements in upper extremity stability and performance compared with a sham intervention. Findings from this study may contribute to understanding the potential role of tissue flossing as a practical strategy for enhancing upper extremity performance in healthy individuals and physically active populations.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age 18-35 years.
2. Absence of current upper-extremity pain or dysfunction.
3. Ability to safely assume a full push-up position and perform a two-handed seated chest pass.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. History of upper-extremity surgery.
2. Acute musculoskeletal injury within the preceding 6 months.
3. Known vascular disease, coagulation or clotting disorders, uncontrolled hypertension, or any other contraindication to short-term circumferential limb compression.
4. Confirmed latex allergy, given that the floss band used in this study was latex-based.