Percussion Massage Therapy Reduced EMG Activity During Standing Heel Raise

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Sports Medicine
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is linked to altered neuromuscular control.
• Understanding the impact of therapeutic interventions on muscle activation is crucial for effective rehabilitation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the acute effects of percussion massage therapy (PMT) on calf muscle activation during heel raises.
• To compare these effects in individuals with and without CAI.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-nine university students (20 with CAI, 19 controls) participated.
• Participants were randomized to 30 seconds of PMT or no intervention.
• Surface electromyography (EMG) measured medial gastrocnemius activity during heel raises before and after intervention.

Main Results:

• Individuals with CAI exhibited significantly lower baseline calf muscle activation compared to controls.
• PMT significantly reduced peak EMG activity in both CAI and control groups.
• The no-intervention group showed no significant changes in muscle activation.

Conclusions:

• CAI is associated with diminished calf muscle activation.
• PMT acutely decreases calf muscle activation, which may not be beneficial when increased activation is desired.
• Further research is warranted on PMT's role in rehabilitation and athletic performance, considering its impact on muscle activation.