NCT06911580

Immediate Effects of Graston Massage on Muscle Properties and Performance in Elite Female Handball Players

Investigation of the Immediate Effects of Graston Massage on Muscle Mechanical Properties and Sports Performance in Elite Female Handball Players With Isolated Gastrocnemius Tightness

• Status: Completed
• Phase: N/A
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 16 (actual)
• Sponsor: Giresun University · Academic / Other
• Sex: Female
• Age: 19 Years – 27 Years
• Healthy volunteers: Accepted

Summary

The aim of this study is to investigate the immediate effects of Graston massage on muscle mechanical properties and sports performance in elite handball players with isolated gastrocnemius tightness.

Detailed description

Handball is a high-paced competitive sport that requires advanced physical demands. The ability to achieve the desired performance in handball is influenced by the functionality of the lower extremities. One of the key structures responsible for the mobility of the lower extremities is the gastrocnemius muscle. The gastrocnemius is a superficial, two-headed skeletal muscle located in the posterior part of the leg, with its primary function being plantar flexion of the ankle. Due to intense usage, improper training models, or various traumas, structural abnormalities may develop in the gastrocnemius muscle among athletes. One of the most common structural disorders is isolated gastrocnemius tightness (IGT). IGT is considered critical in terms of sports injuries and performance and is also recognized as a prevalent disorder even in the general population. IGT, which arises as a result of gastrocnemius-soleus contracture, is a muscle dysfunction characterized by increased stiffness of the ankle joint in dorsiflexion. Restrictions in dorsiflexion caused by IGT can increase pressure on soft tissues during changing conditions and sudden movements in training and competitions, leading to a higher risk of injury and potential declines in sports performance. Chronic muscle tightness also affects the viscoelastic properties of the muscle. Mechanical muscle properties such as muscle tone and stiffness are considered fundamental elements for maintaining efficient muscle contractions in terms of both function and energy. A shortened and tight skeletal muscle may hinder potential force production, leading to increased muscle tone and stiffness. Increased tone and stiffness, in turn, can reduce movement efficiency and contribute to a higher risk of injuries. IGT can be alleviated through various interventions, including exercise models, surgical procedures, and myofascial release techniques. The Graston technique is recommended for restoring optimal length in the myofascial complex, enhancing function, and improving hypomobility caused by skeletal muscle tightness. Previous studies have emphasized the importance of IGT and its treatment. However, no comprehensive study has been found regarding the effects of preventive measures against IGT on sports performance and muscle properties in athletes. Identifying IGT and implementing effective compensatory mechanisms play a crucial role in maintaining athlete health and sustaining performance, highlighting the significance of this research.

Conditions

• Isolated Gastrocnemius Tightness

Interventions

Type	Name	Description
PROCEDURE	Graston Massage	The participant was positioned prone on the treatment table with the knee slightly flexed. A small amount of lubricating gel was applied to the entire gastrosoleus complex and the calcaneal tendon. For one minute, sweeping strokes were performed downwards on the gastrocnemius heads using the GT-5 tool. From the second to the fourth minute, the GT-5 was used in an upward direction to ensure that both the gastrocnemius and soleus were treated. Afterward, with the GT-2 tool, one minute of downward sweeping and one minute of upward sweeping were performed on the calcaneal tendon. Following the two minutes of sweeping, GT-3 was used to apply short, perpendicular strokes to the medial and lateral sides of the calcaneal tendon, with 30 seconds for each side. The total application lasted approximately 7 minutes (Palmer et al., 2017).

Timeline

• Start date: 2024-11-01
• Primary completion: 2025-01-01
• Completion: 2025-02-20
• First posted: 2025-04-04
• Last updated: 2025-04-04

Locations

1 site across 1 country: Turkey (Türkiye)