Manual massage effect in knee extensors peak torque during short-term intense continuous concentric–eccentric isokinetic exercise in female elite athletes

Manual massage is considered an important part of athletic rehabilitation or preparation for training and competition. Objective: To study the possible effects of manual massage on concentric and eccentric peak torque of knee extensors, when applied during intervals of exercise. Methods: Twelve elite female Tae Kwon Do athletes were tested twice during a week (different extremity each) in continuous concentric/eccentric isokinetic exercise (6 sets of 10 repetitions, with 2 minutes intervals). Manual massage was applied during breaks to the extremity (massage extremity) while for the other limb (control extremity) the interval was passive. For both groups peak torque was measured 3 minutes after the last set. The same test was performed 3 minutes prior to the first set. The best performance was recorded pre- and post-exercise and the results were compared. Results: For both groups peak torque (concentric and eccentric) was reduced after the exercise protocol. In the massage group the reduction was lower and significantly different for eccentric type of muscle work ( p< 0.05). Conclusions: Application of manual massage during isokinetic exercise intervals has an enhancing effect on the peak eccentric torque of the knee extensors.