This randomized controlled study aims to investigate the effects of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) and percussion massage therapy on balance, explosive strength, and functional performance in competitive adolescent rowers. A total of 45 participants aged 13-18 will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: vibration therapy group, soft tissue mobilization group, and control group. Interventions will target the quadriceps and gastrocnemius muscles. Outcome measures include the Y Balance Test, vertical jump, hop tests, and isometric muscle strength via myometry. The results of this study are expected to provide evidence-based insights into optimizing performance and injury prevention strategies in rowing athletes.
Rowing is a high-performance sport that demands coordinated action of the upper and lower extremities, trunk muscles, and cardiovascular system. Due to repetitive pulling movements, rowers are prone to musculoskeletal overload injuries, particularly in the lower back, shoulders, knees, and ankles. Effective balance control and lower extremity explosive strength are critical for performance enhancement and injury prevention in rowing athletes. Soft tissue mobilization techniques and vibration therapies are emerging modalities that may enhance muscle flexibility, joint mobility, and neuromuscular activation, thereby contributing to athletic performance. This randomized controlled study is designed to evaluate the effects of two different interventions-instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) using the Graston technique, and percussion massage therapy using a handheld massage gun-on balance, explosive strength, and functional performance in competitive adolescent rowers aged 13-18. A total of 45 athletes meeting inclusion criteria will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: Vibration Group (percussion therapy at 33Hz), Soft Tissue Mobilization Group (IASTM), and Control Group (no intervention). Both interventions will be applied to the quadriceps femoris and gastrocnemius muscles over standardized durations and protocols. Functional outcomes will be measured using the Y Balance Test, vertical jump test, single-leg hop tests (single, triple, crossover, square hop), and a 6-meter timed hop. Muscle strength will be evaluated using a myometer to assess isometric force production of the quadriceps and gastrosoleus muscles. Assessments will be conducted pre- and post-intervention. The study is expected to provide clinically relevant data on the efficacy of myofascial techniques in enhancing functional capacity and performance parameters in young elite athletes. Findings may support the incorporation of soft tissue techniques and vibration therapy into performance training and injury prevention protocols for rowing and similar sports.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
DOUBLE
Enrollment
45
Participants receive percussion massage therapy (33 Hz) applied to the quadriceps and gastrocnemius muscles using a handheld massage device for 5 minutes per muscle group.
Participants receive instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM, Graston technique) applied to the quadriceps and gastrocnemius muscles using stainless steel tools with standardized techniques (Sweep, Fan, Brush) for 6 minutes.
Tayfun Arslan
Sinop, Turkey (Türkiye)
Y Balance Test Composite Score
Assesses dynamic balance and postural control of the lower extremities. During the test, participants perform maximal reach in three directions-anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral-while maintaining a single-leg stance. The composite score is calculated by averaging the reach distances in all three directions, normalized to the participant's leg length using the formula: Composite Score = (Anterior + Posteromedial + Posterolateral) / (3 × limb length) × 100 Scale Range: 0 to 100% Interpretation: Higher scores indicate better dynamic balance and greater postural control.
Time frame: Pre-intervention and immediately post-intervention
Vertical Jump Height
Measures lower extremity explosive strength. Participants perform a countermovement jump, and the maximum vertical jump height is recorded. Unit of Measure: centimeters (cm) Scale Range: Not fixed (depends on physical capacity; typically 10-80 cm) Interpretation: Higher scores indicate greater explosive power in the lower extremities.
Time frame: Pre-intervention and immediately post-intervention
Single-Leg Hop Tests
Assesses unilateral functional lower limb performance and dynamic stability. Participants perform a maximal forward hop on one leg, and the distance is measured. Unit of Measure: centimeters (cm) Scale Range: Not fixed (typically 50-250 cm) Interpretation: Greater distances reflect better functional strength and neuromuscular control.
Time frame: Pre-intervention and immediately post-intervention
6-Meter Timed Hop Test
Assesses power, speed, and dynamic control over a short distance using a single-leg hop. Total time to complete 6 meters is recorded.
Time frame: Pre-intervention and immediately post-intervention
Isometric Muscle Strength of Quadriceps and Gastrocnemius
Assessed with a hand-held myometer to measure maximal isometric force in Newtons.Myometer device with standard positioning and stabilization.
Time frame: Pre-intervention and immediately post-intervention
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