Comparison of Interventional Strategies to Improve Recovery after Eccentric Exercise-Induced Muscle Fatigue

Abstract

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of various recovery techniques on muscle tissue after eccentric exercise-induced muscle fatigue (EIMF). Forty subjects (24.3 ± 2.6 years; 77.45 ± 8.3 kg; 177.0 ± 6.4 cm; 24.66 ± 1.6 kg∙m−2) were randomly assigned to one of the following groups: manual therapy (n =10, MT), mechanical vibration (n = 10, MV), percussion therapy (n = 10, PT) or foam roller (n = 10, FR). The contraction time (Tc) and the radial displacement (Dm) of the gastrocnemius was evaluated through tensiomyography (TMG). The application of the different techniques had positive effects for Tc and Dm in the treated leg compared to the untreated leg (F = 50.01, p < 0.01, η2p = 0.58 and F = 27.58, p < 0.01, η2p = 0.43, respectively) and for the interaction of the factors (Time x Leg x Therapy: F = 5.76, p < 0.01, η2p = 0.32 and F = 5.93, p < 0.01, η2p = 0.33, respectively). The results of the various methods used were similar: Tc (F = 0.17, p = 0.917; η2p = 0.01) and Dm (F = 3.30, p = 0.031, η2p = 0.22). PT interventions show potential for restoring muscle compliance and reducing stiffness, similar to MT and possibly more effective (cost-time relationship) compared to MV or FR.

Does Vibration Foam Roller Influence Performance and Recovery? A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

“…Regarding agility, it seems to increase after interventions with VFR. Theoretically, the stimulation of the proprioceptors with VFR could increase the velocity of contraction and response [ 35 , 36 ]. However, agility is influenced by the tone and the stiffness of the muscles involved [ 30 , 39 ] and VFR has been shown to decrease these [ 3 , 6 , 37 ], which could be detrimental to agility test performance and could explain the conflicting results.…”

“…Conversely, the results of the meta-analysis show there is not enough evidence to assert that VFR has positive effects on isokinetic strength. Changes in tissue thixotropy, tone and stiffness could influence these results, but in addition the lower muscle activation reached with VFR could decrease the strength [ 8 , 35 , 36 ]. Previous studies with FR demonstrated that the strength could decrease after those interventions but maintaining the performance, due to the modulation of the tone and the changes in the mechanical properties of the muscles [ 32 , 38 , 39 ], but there is little evidence to support this theory with VFR.…”

Acute Effects of a Percussive Massage Treatment on Movement Velocity during Resistance Training

“…The mechanisms by which PT works are not fully understood; changes in fascial components, adhesions, piezoelectricity, myofascial trigger points, and viscoelastic properties of tissue influenced by collagen remodeling and changes in elastin are possible reasons for the ROM and muscle force increases seen after PT [15]. Previous research [15,16] with this technique has focused on the effects on reducing stiffness and increasing range of motion, with a longer application time (2 to 5 min) and lower intensities (1750 rpm).…”

“…Recently, the application of foam roller self-massage during lower extremity exercise inter-set rests has been investigated, with findings indicating that the use of this technique hinders performance and increases perceived exertion [14]. In contrast, handheld percussive massage treatment (PT) has gained popularity in the therapeutic and athletic communities in recent years [15,16]. Nowadays, many different manufacturers provide percussion devices for both self-massage and massage by a therapist.…”

“…Another study showed that PT improved the range of motion in dorsiflexion without affecting muscle strength [15], after a 5 min massage treatment. However, PT interventions have shown a potential effect in restoring muscle compliance and reducing stiffness, creating an optimum environment for muscle recovery between sets during RT, due to a possible optimization of recovery of muscle tissue [16]. In relation to these aspects, PT could be a valid strategy to delay RT fatigue.…”