Effects of Sports Massage Therapy on Upper Limb Muscle Recovery Indicators after Resistance Training
Abstract
Resistance training aims at muscular hypertrophy, however this process can trigger tension and decrease muscle-tendon elasticity, compromising range of movement and generating pain. Sports massage increases tissue circulation and works to drain interstitial fluids, thus moderating the level of muscle tension and recovery time. This study aims to evaluate the effects of sports massage on resistance training practitioners, analyzing flexibility and pain in the upper limbs. This is a quasi-experimental study of an uncontrolled clinical trial applied to 8 adult men, with an average age of 38.6 years, who have been practicing bodybuilding for at least six months. Pain and flexibility were assessed before and after training, 24 hours after and after sports massage on the upper limbs. The results indicated that the sports massage applied 24 hours after training was effective in recovering joint range of motion in all points evaluated, with p values between <0.001 and 0.04. There was also a mean reduction in the Visual Analogue Scale pain score, from 3.75 (SD=2.2) to 2.0 (SD=1.4). Given the results, it is suggested that sports massage therapy in resistance training environments, such as gyms, can be an ally in post-workout recovery and injury prevention in bodybuilders.
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Author Biographies
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