Effect of tissue flossing on eccentric exercise-induced muscle damage: A randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Exercise Physiology
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) is a common consequence of high-intensity exercise.
• Muscle damage can lead to pain, reduced strength, and impaired function.
• Novel recovery strategies are continuously being explored to mitigate EIMD effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of tissue flossing (TF) in mitigating exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD).
• To assess the impact of TF on muscle strength, pain perception, and fascial mobility post-exercise.

Main Methods:

• 24 healthy males were randomized into a tissue flossing (TF) group or a control (CON) group.
• EIMD was induced via isokinetic eccentric quadriceps exercises.
• TF intervention involved active movement during floss band application immediately post-exercise and 24-48 hours later. Measurements included creatine kinase (CK), eccentric strength, pressure pain threshold (PPT), and deep fascia sliding (DFS).

Main Results:

• The TF group exhibited significantly lower creatine kinase (CK) levels compared to the CON group.
• Knee extensor eccentric strength recovery was faster in the TF group, returning to baseline at 48 hours versus 72 hours for CON.
• Tissue flossing significantly improved pressure pain threshold (PPT) and deep fascia sliding (DFS) in multiple quadriceps muscles compared to the control group.

Conclusions:

• Tissue flossing is an effective strategy for alleviating exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD).
• TF enhances recovery of muscle strength and improves pain perception and fascial mobility post-exercise.
• This technique offers a promising approach for athletes and individuals seeking to optimize recovery from strenuous physical activity.