Effects of percussion massage therapy, dynamic stretching, and static stretching on physical performance and balance

Abstract

Background: Percussion massage therapy is a popular approach in sport medicine for physical therapists, but few researchers have investigated the comparison with other intervention methods.

Objective: This study aimed to examine the comparison of the effects of dynamic stretching, static stretching and percussive massage therapy on balance and physical performance in individuals.

Methods: The participants who were 18-25 years of age, able to perform performance tests, did not have any orthopedic surgery, did not have problems during running and sudden turning, and did not have a professional sports history were included in the study. Participants were assigned randomly to three groups as dynamic stretching (DS) (n= 16), static stretching (SS) (n= 16) and percussive massage therapy (PMT) (n= 16) groups. Horizontal jumping test, T drill test and balance measurements on a single leg with open and closed eyes of all participants were recorded before and after applications.

Results: When the values of the pre and post-treatment of all groups in the study were compared, significant improvements were observed in the t-test, horizontal jumping test and right/left foot balance with eyes open in DS group (p< 0.05). Significant improvements were observed in all values in the PMT group (p< 0.05). In the comparison of the differences between the groups, PMT group values were more significant than the SS group in all parameters.

Conclusion: Percussive massage therapy would be an alternative that can be used to increase the performance and balance of individuals before exercise.

Keywords: Exercise; massage therapy; postural balance; vibration; warm-up exercise.