Deep Tissue Massage Therapy: Effects on Muscle Recovery and Performance in Athletes

Abstract

Background: Deep tissue massage has been used in sports for improving performance and recovery on deep muscle layers. This study looks at its effectiveness across different sports, performance, and recovery.

Purpose: To assess the effect of deep tissue massage on muscle recovery and performance improvement across different sports, teams, strength, endurance, and individual sports.

Methods: A randomized controlled trial design was used, and 150 athletes aged 18–45 years received bi-weekly 40-min deep tissue massage for 8 weeks. Performance improvement, muscle recovery, and flexibility were measured with objective and subjective assessments. Chi-square tests, analysis of variance, and Tukey’s post hoc tests were used for statistical analysis.

Results: Team and strength athletes in this study showed the greatest performance improvement, in contrast to individual and endurance athletes (F = 6.61, p = 0.004). Bi-weekly massage sessions showed better recovery outcomes (χ2 = 9.41, p = 0.0243). Longer massage sessions showed increased flexibility (χ2 = 19.77, p < 0.001). Gender differences were found in perceived effectiveness of massage (χ2 = 9.46, p = 0.024). Also, the intervention showed improvement in muscle strength and flexibility, especially in the lumbar region, knee, and shoulder, focusing on the effects of the massage protocol in joint mobility and muscle function.

Conclusion: Deep tissue massage therapy improves athletic performance and muscle recovery, especially for team and strength sports. With regular and continuous massage sessions, flexibility and recovery are improved among athletes.