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Sports massage: A comprehensive review

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Albert Moraska at University of Colorado
Albert Moraska
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Abstract

The science of sports massage is of interest to many populations including athletes, athletic trainers, coaches, as well as sports physiologists. While evidence to support or refute the effects of massage on sports performance is insufficient to make definitive statements, new reports and trends within data help formulate an understanding of sports massage. This article will review sports massage research on topics including lactate clearance, delayed onset of muscle soreness (DOMS), muscle fatigue, the psychological effect of massage, and injury prevention and treatment. Articles referenced in Medline, Cochrane Database, the authors library, and references from articles are included in this review. Most studies contain methodological limitations including inadequate therapist training, insufficient duration of treatment, few subjects, or over or under working of muscles that limit a practical conclusion. Muscle soreness associated with DOMS is reduced with massage, although whether force recovers more quickly is still unclear. The research literature to date is insufficient to conclude whether massage facilitates recovery from a fatiguing effort. Both tissue healing and a psychological effect of massage are areas that may prove promising with further research. Results from published literature support a positive trend for massage to benefit athletic recovery and performance; a need for further research into sports massage, especially well-designed studies utilizing therapists specifically trained to administer this type of therapy, is warranted.
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Sports massage: A comprehensive review
A Moraska
Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness; Sep 2005; 45, 3;
ProQuest Nursing & Allied Health Source
pg. 370
Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permission.
Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permission.
Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permission.
Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permission.
Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permission.
Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permission.
Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permission.
Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permission.
Reproduced with permission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction prohibited without permission.
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... Therefore, further research on the effectiveness of sports massage is needed, including studies on broader samples (Moraska, 2005). In conclusion, sports massage is considered an effective method for alleviating post-training fatigue. ...
... Ø Stretching and mobilization: A technique that reduces muscle tension through stretching and extending movements. Ø Trigger point therapy: A technique aimed at relieving muscle tension and pain by applying pressure to specific points (Best et al., 2008;Moraska, 2005). ...
Effects of Sports Massage on Post-Workout Fatigue
Article
Full-text available
  • Jun 2024
This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of sports massage on post-exercise fatigue. The meta-analysis method was used in the study. Meta-analysis is a statistical method used to combine the results of different research studies to answer a similar research question. It includes randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies examining the effect of sports massage on postexercise fatigue. The study was designed in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. The findings indicate that sports massage is effective in reducing post-exercise fatigue symptoms and accelerating athletes' recovery processes. Most of the studies included in the analysis demonstrate that sports massage reduces muscle pain, improves muscle function, and minimizes inflammatory responses. However, there are some differences and debates in the research regarding the effectiveness of sports massage. Nevertheless, there is strong evidence overall for the potential of sports massage to reduce post-exercise fatigue and accelerate athletes' recovery processes. However, further randomized controlled trials and research in various populations are needed to optimize the effectiveness of sports massage and standardize application protocols. Future studies should focus on different sports disciplines and athlete profiles to evaluate the effectiveness of sports massage in a broader context.
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... With growing scientific support for complementary therapies in sports medicine, massage therapy has emerged as a promising tool for enhancing recovery and performance [13]. While there is existing literature supporting the benefits of massage therapy in various sports disciplines [14][15][16], there is a lack of comprehensive reviews specifically focusing on its impact on Taekwondo athletes. ...
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Article
Full-text available
Background and objectives: Taekwondo is a physically intense martial art that demands strength, agility, and mental focus, often leading to physical and psychological strain. While massage therapy is recognized for enhancing muscle recovery, reducing injury risk, alleviating stress, and improving sleep quality in athletes, its specific effects on Taekwondo athletes remain underexplored. This review aims to evaluate the impact of massage therapy on physical recovery, injury prevention, and psychological well-being in Taekwondo athletes. Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted across Science Direct, Google Scholar, Sport Discus, and PubMed, using MeSH terms including “massage therapy,” “Taekwondo athletes,” “muscle recovery,” “injury prevention,” “psychological well-being,” “Swedish massage,” “deep tissue massage,” “sports massage,” “performance optimization,” and “sleep quality.” Results: Thirteen peer-reviewed studies met the inclusion criteria. The findings suggest that massage therapy improves muscle recovery, enhances flexibility and balance, supports injury prevention, and contributes positively to athletes’ psychological states, including mood and anxiety reduction. Conclusions: Massage therapy appears to be an effective intervention for enhancing both performance and well-being in Taekwondo athletes. Future studies should aim to standardize massage protocols and investigate long-term effects across training and competition periods.
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... Penguasaan teknik sports massage ini penting mengingat manfaatnya yang beragam dalam konteks olahraga, baik sebagai persiapan sebelum aktivitas fisik maupun sebagai bagian dari proses Journal Pusat Studi Pendidikan Rakyat Volume 5 Nomor 1 Februari 2025 Halaman 1-10 pemulihan (Best et al., 2008). Menurut Moraska (2013), sports massage dapat meningkatkan range of motion, mengurangi nyeri otot yang tertunda (delayed onset muscle soreness/DOMS), dan meningkatkan performa fisik secara keseluruhan. Dengan kemampuan ini, anggota Karang Taruna dapat berkontribusi dalam optimalisasi performa atlet lokal dan mempercepat proses pemulihan pasca pertandingan. ...
Sosialisasi Sports Massage dan Pencegahan Perawatan Cedera olahraga di Karang Taruna
Article
Full-text available
  • Apr 2025
Olahraga yang semakin berkembang ke pelosok, menjadikan olahraga semakin memasyarakat. Banyak pertandingan-pertandingan yang diselenggarakan dari mulai cabang olahraga yang bersifat individu dan kelompok. Di desa-desa sering banyak pertandingan antar desa, antar club yang diselenggarakan oleh karang taruna. Anggota karang taruna dengan berbagai background keilmuan sangat diperlukan pengetahuan bagaimana pencegahan dan perawatan cedera dan masase olahraga. Tujuan pengusulan rencana kegiatan “Sosialisasi Sports Massage dan Pencegahan Perawatan Cedera Olahraga Di Karang Taruna” adalah : 1) Memberikan pengetahuan kepada anggota karang taruna tentang sports massage dan Pencegahan Perawatan Cedera Olahraga, 2) Meningkatkan pengalaman dan pengetahuan anggota karang taruna, 3) Dengan bertambahnya pengetahuan tersebut bisa meminimalisir resiko cedera, dan bisa memberikan pertolongan pertama pada saat terjadi kecelakaan/ cedera saat berolahraga. Pelaksanaan Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat Skema Program Unggulan Program Studi (PbM-PUPS) dilaksanakan di Karang Taruna Setiawaras Kec. Cibalong dan Karang Taruna Kelurahan Gunung Gede Kecamatan Kawalu. Metode pelaksanaan kegiatan PbM-PUPS ini adalah : a) Melakukan wawancara kepada anggota karang tarunadan melakukan pretest, b) Memberikan sosialisasi tentang sports massage dan pencegahan perawatan cedera, c) Memberikan praktek atau pengalaman lapangan bagaimana melakukan sports massage dan perawatan pencegahan cedera olahraga, d) evaluasi atau dilakanakannya post test untuk mengukur keberhasilan pelaksanaan kegiatan baik dari segi teori , maupun kebermanfaatan yang diperoleh anggota karang taruna.
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... It delivers localized vibrations with frequencies ranging from 5 to 300 Hz, amplitudes of 0.12 to 12 mm, and durations of 6 seconds to 30 minutes (Germann et al., 2018). This device mimics the therapeutic effects of tapotement massage therapy (Moraska, 2005). In recent years, percussive massage have been used in both clinical and sports contexts for warm-up, recovery, or as part of treatment (Germann et al., 2018). ...
Effects of Percussive Massage on Lactate Removal, Strength and Explosive Power of Leg Muscles after Physical Exercise
Article
Full-text available
  • Apr 2025
The implementation of percussive massage therapy plays an important role in supporting muscle recovery, reducing fatigue, increasing blood flow, and improving flexibility and performance. However, percussive massage after physical exercise remains limited and is not widely practiced. Therefore, this study was conducted to further investigate the recovery effects of percussive massage on reducing blood lactate levels and increasing strength and explosive power in the leg muscles after physical exercise. A total of 16 participants took part in this study, evenly divided into two groups of eight. The percussive massage group (PM) had a mean age of 20.75±1.48 years, a body weight of 59.05±6.46 kg, a height of 164.50±4.37 cm, and a body mass index (BMI) of 21.90±1.96 kg/m². This group received percussive massage on their lower extremities. Meanwhile, the passive recovery group (PR) had a mean age of 20.75±1.48 years, a body weight of 63.40±5.49 kg, a height of 167.03±7.14 cm, and a body mass index (BMI) of 21.78±1.43 kg/m², and did not receive any massage. Both groups performed countermovement jump plyometric exercises consisting of 5 sets of 20 repetitions, with a 1-minute rest period between sets and repetitions. Measurements of blood lactate levels, as well as strength and explosive power of the leg muscles, were taken before and after the recovery period. The findings indicated that percussive massage therapy significantly reduced blood lactate levels (p=0.000) and enhanced leg muscle explosive power (p=0.034). Furthermore, there were significant differences in the delta (Δ) of blood lactate levels and leg muscle explo-siveness between the PM group and the PR group (p=0.012 and p=0.038), while no significant differences were found in the delta (Δ) of leg muscle strength between the two groups (p=0.089). Based on the findings of this study, percussive massage therapy after physical exercise positively impacts the reduction of blood lactate levels and enhances explosive power in the leg muscles. However, it does does not have a significant effect on leg muscle strength.
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... Other instances demonstrate that chair massage and exercises like dance have been beneficial in reducing these disorders (Brawner et al., 2021;Dakić et al., 2023). Although massage alone may not significantly impact strength, endurance, or fatigue, it is still regarded as effective in increasing the range of motion and reducing pain (Brummitt, 2008;Dakić et al., 2023;Huth et al., 2006;Mattos Biasuz et al., 2015;Moraska, 2005;Trofa et al., 2020). Additionally, specialized kinesitherapy programs have been developed to address core stabilization and low back pain in female athletes, underlining the importance of personalized rehabilitation approaches (Avramova, 2021). ...
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Full-text available
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Background: Back musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are a significant cause of pain and functional impairment, frequently arising from workplace activities and poor lifestyle habits. Despite the introduction of various rehabilitation programs, many fail to deliver sustained improvements in pain relief and functional recovery. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a newly developed, integrative therapeutic model combining massage therapy and targeted exercise interventions for the rehabilitation of back musculoskeletal disorders. Materials & Methods: A quasi-experimental design was employed, utilizing mixed methods to assess the impact of the intervention. The study involved 24 participants, comprising 5 males and 19 females aged 28 to 62. All participants were diagnosed with back musculoskeletal injuries. They were selected through purposive sampling. The intervention consisted of therapeutic massage sessions and structured exercise regimens aimed at improving flexibility, strength, and range of motion (ROM). Data were collected through field trials, with key outcome measures including pain levels (assessed via self-reported questionnaires), ROM (measured using a goniometer), and muscle strength (evaluated through sit-up and leg press performance tests). Statistical analysis was conducted using paired t-tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests to determine significant differences between pre-and post-intervention results. Results: The findings revealed statistically significant improvements across all measured variables. Participants reported reduced pain levels, increased ROM, and enhanced muscular strength post-intervention, with a p-value of less than 0.05, indicating the effectiveness of the therapeutic model. These results suggest that the integrative approach combining massage and exercise significantly contributes to alleviating pain and improving functional outcomes in individuals with back MSDs. Conclusion: The newly developed therapeutic massage and exercise model proved highly effective in reducing pain, increasing range of motion, and improving muscular strength among individuals suffering from back musculoskeletal disorders. This integrative approach shows promising results for enhancing rehabilitation outcomes and may serve as a viable option for addressing the limitations of traditional rehabilitation methods.
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... Modern percussive therapy may owe many of its original roots to manual percussion or tapotement-based therapeutic massage. These techniques involve a practitioner applying light rhythmic striking to the skin with the ulnar portion of the hand or with hands in a cupped position [1]. A derivative of these treatments, mechanical percussive therapy, was originally developed as an osteopathic treatment for musculoskeletal pain in the 1950s by Dr Robert Fulford, administered via a percussion vibrator [2]. ...
Massage It Out: Physiological Responses to a Percussive Therapy Device Used Intra-Resistance Exercise
Article
Full-text available
  • Jun 2024
Percussive therapy devices have been proven effective at reducing muscle inflammation, soreness, and tension and improving the range of motion before or after exercise. However, there is a notable lack of research on percussive therapy intra-exercise. Purpose: Examine the physiological responses (i.e., sets/reps) to percussive therapy during single-arm biceps curls (BCs) and single-leg quadriceps extensions (LEs). Methods: Participants [N = 26, 10 females] completed an initial 10-repetition maximum (10 RM) for BCs and LEs. Following that, participants completed two testing sessions in which BCs and LEs were completed at their 10 RM until functional failure (i.e., <7 reps completed). Participants completed two testing sessions in which all body parts received percussive therapy at 25 Hz for 60 s between sets and no percussive therapy. Results: Participants completed more sets [p = 0.002; Cohen’s d = 0.54] and reps [p = 0.005; Cohen’s d = 0.51] during the control condition relative to the percussive therapy condition. There were no differences between body parts (i.e., BC vs. LE) or interaction effects. Conclusion: This study provides evidence that low-frequency long-duration percussive therapy used intra-resistance exercise decreases performance parameters.
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... Massage is a ''mechanical manipulation of body tissues with rhythmical pressure and stroking for the purpose of promoting health and well-being''. It is used for recovery purposes, prior and post exercise preparation, prevention and rehabilitation of injuries [4]. The most commonly used kind of massage is Swedish massage. ...
Athletes' performance increasing techniques through application of aesthetics procedures
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Full-text available
  • Feb 2024
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Changing Eating Habits and Sociologically Healthy Body Image
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This book, titled Academic Research and Evaluations in the Field of Sports Sciences V, represents a comprehensive and multidisciplinary collection of academic studies in the field of sport sciences. This book delves into various aspects of sport sciences, encompassing cutting-edge research and current developments. Each chapter is meticulously crafted by experts in the field, offering insights into diverse topics such as sports physiology, biomechanics, psychology, and sports management. The studies included aim to bridge the gap between theory and practice, providing valuable contributions to the literature and advancing our understanding of sports sciences. Through this book, we strive to present a rich tapestry of knowledge that not only highlights recent advancements but also addresses emerging challenges in the realm of sport sciences. This collection is intended for scholars, researchers, practitioners, and students who are keen to explore the dynamic and evolving landscape of sport sciences.
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Effect of Percussion and vibration therapy in Musculoskeletal disorders: A short review
Article
Full-text available
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The utilization of percussion theory with the help of (hand held massager or prominently known as hand gun) has become progressively well known as of late. In spite of the fact that their utilization is increasingly normal, both in a clinical and sports setting, there is still little data to direct the experts. This survey planned to decide the impacts of percussion therapy in as pre-and post-action or part of a treatment. Information sources utilized were Pub Med, PEDro, Scopus, Claviate, Medline, Web of Science and Google Researcher. At first, 170 records were screened, out of which 16 could be incorporated with considerate inclusion and exclusion criteria. Fifteen had a moderate gamble of predisposition and one a high gamble of inclination. In strength, balance, speed increase, endurance, it either didn't have upgrades or it even showed a decline in execution. In the recuperation related results, percussion gun were demonstrated to be practical instruments for firmness decrease.
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Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness
Article
Full-text available
  • Feb 2003
Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is a familiar experience for the elite or novice athlete. Symptoms can range from muscle tenderness to severe debilitating pain. The mechanisms, treatment strategies, and impact on athletic performance remain uncertain, despite the high incidence of DOMS. DOMS is most prevalent at the beginning of the sporting season when athletes are returning to training following a period of reduced activity. DOMS is also common when athletes are first introduced to certain types of activities regardless of the time of year. Eccentric activities induce micro-injury at a greater frequency and severity than other types of muscle actions. The intensity and duration of exercise are also important factors in DOMS onset. Up to six hypothesised theories have been proposed for the mechanism of DOMS, namely: lactic acid, muscle spasm, connective tissue damage, muscle damage, inflammation and the enzyme efflux theories. However, an integration of two or more theories is likely to explain muscle soreness. DOMS can affect athletic performance by causing a reduction in joint range of motion, shock attenuation and peak torque. Alterations in muscle sequencing and recruitment patterns may also occur, causing unaccustomed stress to be placed on muscle ligaments and tendons. These compensatory mechanisms may increase the risk of further injury if a premature return to sport is attempted. A number of treatment strategies have been introduced to help alleviate the severity of DOMS and to restore the maximal function of the muscles as rapidly as possible. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have demonstrated dosage-dependent effects that may also be influenced by the time of administration. Similarly, massage has shown varying results that may be attributed to the time of massage application and the type of massage technique used. Cryotherapy, stretching, homeopathy, ultrasound and electrical current modalities have demonstrated no effect on the alleviation of muscle soreness or other DOMS symptoms. Exercise is the most effective means of alleviating pain during DOMS, however the analgesic effect is also temporary. Athletes who must train on a daily basis should be encouraged to reduce the intensity and duration of exercise for 1–2 days following intense DOMS-inducing exercise. Alternatively, exercises targeting less affected body parts should be encouraged in order to allow the most affected muscle groups to recover. Eccentric exercises or novel activities should be introduced progressively over a period of 1 or 2 weeks at the beginning of, or during, the sporting season in order to reduce the level of physical impairment and/or training disruption. There are still many unanswered questions relating to DOMS, and many potential areas for future research.
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The effects of massage on delayed onset muscle soreness
Article
  • Feb 2003
Objectives The purpose of this study was to investigate the physiological and psychological effects of massage on delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). Methods Eighteen volunteers were randomly assigned to either a massage or control group. DOMS was induced with six sets of eight maximal eccentric contractions of the right hamstring, which were followed 2 h later by 20 min of massage or sham massage (control). Peak torque and mood were assessed at 2, 6, 24, and 48 h postexercise. Range of motion (ROM) and intensity and unpleasantness of soreness were assessed at 6, 24, and 48 h postexercise. Neutrophil count was assessed at 6 and 24 h postexercise. Results A two factor ANOVA (treatment v time) with repeated measures on the second factor showed no significant treatment differences for peak torque, ROM, neutrophils, unpleasantness of soreness, and mood (p > 0.05). The intensity of soreness, however, was significantly lower in the massage group relative to the control group at 48 h postexercise (p < 0.05). Conclusions Massage administered 2 h after exercise induced muscle injury did not improve hamstring function but did reduce the intensity of soreness 48 h after muscle insult.
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Exercise-Induced Muscle Cramp
Article
  • Jun 1996
Muscle cramp is a common, painful, physiological disturbance of skeletal muscle. Many athletes are regularly frustrated by exercise-induced muscle cramp yet the pathogenesis remains speculative with little scientific research on the subject. This has resulted in a perpetuation of myths as to the cause and treatment of it. There is a need for scientifically based protocols for the management of athletes who suffer exercise-related muscle cramp. This article reviews the literature and neurophysiology of muscle cramp occurring during exercise. Disturbances at various levels of the central and peripheral nervous system and skeletal muscle are likely to be involved in the mechanism of cramp and may explain the diverse range of conditions in which cramp occurs. The activity of the motor neuron is subject to a multitude of influences including peripheral receptor sensory input, spinal reflexes, inhibitory interneurons in the spinal cord, synaptic and neurotransmitter modulation and descending CNS input. The muscle spindle and golgi tendon organ proprioceptors are fundamental to the control of muscle length and tone and the maintenance of posture. Disturbance in the activity of these receptors may occur through faulty posture, shortened muscle length, intense exercise and exercise to fatigue, resulting in increased motor neuron activity and motor unit recruitment. The relaxation phase of muscle contraction is prolonged in a fatigued muscle, raising the likelihood of fused summation of action potentials if motor neuron activity delivers a sustained high firing frequency. Treatment of cramp is directed at reducing muscle spindle and motor neuron activity by reflex inhibition and afferent stimulation. There are no proven strategies for the prevention of exercise-induced muscle cramp but regular muscle stretching using post-isometric relaxation techniques, correction of muscle balance and posture, adequate conditioning for the activity, mental preparation for competition and avoiding provocative drugs may be beneficial. Other strategies such as incorporating plyometrics or eccentric muscle strengthening into training programmes, maintaining adequate carbohydrate reserves during competition or treating myofascial trigger points are speculative and require investigation.
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The Relationship of Massage and Exercise to Mood Enhancement
Article
  • Sep 1988
Examined the relationship between exercise, massage, and positive mood enhancement in 183 university students in physical education classes including swimming, jogging, tennis, and racquetball. Ss from other classes made up a control rest condition and a massage treatment condition resulting in a 1-way design. Data from pre- and postexercise measures indicate that the running and massage conditions consistently produced positive mood enhancement with significant decreases in tension, confusion, fatigue, anxiety, depression, and anger while maintaining high levels of vigor, which is representative of positive mental health. Practical applications of the use of massage both before and after competition and exercise are discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)
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The Effect of Massage on Lactate Disappearance
Article
  • Aug 1993
Although there have been frequent claims in the popular sports literature about the benefits of massage for the athlete, there is meager scientific evidence documenting the beneficial effects of massage. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of sports massage on lactate disappearance following short-term, exhaustive work. Twenty-two male subjects were randomly allocated to three groups following an exhaustive treadmill run. Group 1 recovered passively, Group 2 recovered while riding a stationary bicycle at 40% [latin capital V with dot above]O2max, and Group 3 recovered while having their legs massaged. Recovery lasted 20 min for all groups. Blood was sampled and lactate was determined at rest and at 3, 5, 9, 15, and 20 min postexercise. There were no differences among the groups for blood lactate at rest or 3, 5, or 9 min postexercise. The bicycle recovery group had significantly lower lactate levels than the passive recovery group at 15 and 20 min postexercise. It was concluded that (a) massage following exercise did not remove lactate better than passive recovery in a supine position, and (b) massage following exercise did not remove lactate as well as cycling at 40% of [latin capital V with dot above]O2max. (C) 1993 National Strength and Conditioning Association
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Myths and Truths of Stretching Individualized Recommendations for Healthy Muscles
Article
  • Aug 2000
Stretching recommendations are clouded by misconceptions and conflicting research reports. This review of the current literature on stretching and range-of-motion increases finds that one static stretch of 15 to 30 seconds per day is sufficient for most patients, but some require longer durations. Heat and ice improve the effectiveness of static stretching only if applied during the stretch. Physicians should know the demands of different stretching techniques on muscles when making recommendations to patients. An individualized approach may be most effective based on intersubject variation and differences between healthy and injured tissues.
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The Effects of Massage to the Hamstring Muscle Group on Range of Motion
Article
  • Feb 1984
This study was designed to measure the effect on range of motion of a single massage treatment to the hamstring muscle group. Thirty-four normal female subjects between 18 and 35 years of age were given a 9- 12 minute massage treatment to the posterior aspect of one randomly assigned lower extremity. Passive range of motion of both lower extremities was measured by taking the perpendicular distance from the lateral malleolus to the table surface in a straight leg raise and by conventional goniometry for hip flexion and knee extension. Measurements were taken pre-, and post-, and 7-days postmassage treatment. Immediate postmassage increases in range of motion were noted in the test group (massaged) legs with significance at the 0.05 level. The possible uSe of this treatment in athletics and pathological conditions are discussed. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 1984;6(3):168-172.
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