A massagem percussiva melhora a fadiga muscular e a intensidade da dor no quadríceps, mas não tem efeito sobre o torque muscular dos extensores de joelho e altura do salto vertical: ensaio clínico randomizado cruzado

Abstract

Different methods have been used to optimize post-workout recovery, among which massage stands out. Recently, the use of percussive massage has gained notoriety, though preliminary results are conflicting and there are reports of adverse effects. The aim of the study was to investigate the effectiveness of percussive massage on the intensity of fatigue and muscle soreness, knee extensor muscle torque, and vertical jump height. A randomized crossover clinical trial (RBR-33dz538) with evaluator blinding was conducted. Active participants aged 18 to 40 years were included, while those with self-reported musculoskeletal pain in the hip or knee at baseline were excluded. Participants were randomized and subjected to percussive massage (AVANUTRI®) and passive recovery following a protocol to induce fatigue in the knee extensors. The intensity of muscle fatigue and muscle soreness in the quadriceps during squatting (Numeric Visual Analog Scale), knee extensor muscle torque (PHYSIOCODE F-01® dynamometer), and vertical jump height (Baiobit® inertial sensor) were evaluated. Fifty individuals participated in the study. There was a significant difference in favor of the experimental group for fatigue intensity by 2.58 (95% CI 2.19 - 2.96), muscle soreness by 2.22 (95% CI 1.77 - 2.67), knee extensor muscle torque by 17.2 (95% CI 11.1 - 23.4), and vertical jump height by 0.86 (95% CI 0.36 - 1.35). The percussive massage was effective in reducing muscle damage after inducing fatigue in the knee extensors, however, the values did not return to the levels observed at baseline.