Acute Effects of Percussion Massage Therapy in Adolescent Cyclists

N/ACompletedNCT07206576

Medipol University32 enrolled

Overview

This randomized controlled trial aims to investigate the acute effects of percussion massage therapy (PMT) on balance, explosive strength, and functional performance in adolescent competitive cyclists aged 12-15. A total of 32 participants will be randomly assigned to either a PMT group, which will receive a single session of vibration-based therapy using a handheld percussion device (Compex Fixx 2.0), or a control group with passive rest. Performance parameters will be assessed using the Y Balance Test, vertical jump, hop tests, 10-second sprint cycling, and isometric muscle strength via dynamometry. The study seeks to determine whether PMT offers short-term neuromuscular benefits that may enhance cycling performance in youth athletes.

Cycling is a sport that requires repetitive and rhythmic activation of the lower extremity muscles, where balance, endurance, and muscular power are critical. In adolescent athletes aged 12-15, musculoskeletal structures are still developing, and interventions aimed at enhancing performance must be carefully investigated in terms of both efficacy and safety. Percussion massage therapy (PMT) is a novel method that combines elements of traditional massage and vibration therapy, applying rapid mechanical pulses to soft tissues using handheld devices. PMT has gained popularity in recent years due to its potential to enhance circulation, reduce muscle stiffness, and improve neuromuscular function. Studies suggest that PMT can produce acute effects such as improved proprioception, reduced muscle tone, and enhanced explosive performance. This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the acute effects of PMT on dynamic balance, explosive strength, and functional performance in young competitive cyclists. Thirty-two participants, aged 12 to 15, who have been licensed cyclists for at least 2 years and train regularly, will be randomly assigned to either an intervention group receiving PMT or a control group undergoing passive rest. The intervention group will receive a single session of PMT using the Compex® Fixx™ 2.0 device, applied bilaterally to the gluteus maximus, quadriceps femoris, and gastrocnemius muscles at 41.7 Hz for 3 minutes per muscle group. The control group will remain seated for an equivalent rest period. Performance outcomes will be assessed using the Y Balance Test, Vertical Jump Test, single-leg hop test (triple hop), 10-second cycling sprint test, and handheld dynamometry to measure isometric muscle strength. In addition, subjective muscle relaxation will be evaluated pre- and post-intervention using the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS). The findings of this study will contribute to the limited body of evidence regarding vibration-based interventions in youth athletes and help determine whether PMT is a viable strategy to acutely improve neuromuscular performance in adolescent cyclists.

Interventions

a percussion massage gunDEVICE

Participants assigned to the intervention group will receive a single session of percussion massage therapy (PMT) using the Compex® Fixx™ 2.0 handheld device. The treatment will be applied bilaterally to three major muscle groups: gluteus maximus, quadriceps femoris, and gastrocnemius. The device will operate at a high intensity setting (Level 4) with a frequency of 41.7 Hz. A wedge-shaped applicator head will be used to ensure consistent pressure across the treatment area. Each muscle group will be treated for 3 minutes, following a standardized linear stroke pattern from proximal to distal and back. The total duration of the intervention will be approximately 18 minutes. The intervention will be performed once, immediately before the post-test evaluations, and aims to assess acute effects on neuromuscular performance.

Eligibility

Sex: ALLMin age: 12 YearsMax age: 15 YearsHealthy volunteers:

Medical Language ↔ Plain English

Inclusion Criteria: * Aged between 12 and 15 years * Licensed competitive cyclist for at least 2 years * Participating in at least 4 training sessions per week * No lower extremity injuries in the past 6 months * Voluntary participation by signing the informed consent form Exclusion Criteria: * History of surgery in the knee, hip, or ankle joints * Presence of neurological, vestibular, or systemic balance disorders * Use of medications that may affect performance * Any orthopedic condition that prevents participation in performance tests

Outcomes

Primary Outcomes

Y Balance Test Composite Score

The Y Balance Test will be used to assess dynamic balance by measuring reach distances in three directions (anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral) while standing on one leg. Each direction will be tested three times, and the average reach distance will be normalized to leg length. A composite score will be calculated and expressed as a percentage to evaluate overall dynamic balance capacity. Higher scores indicate better balance performance.