Clinical Research Directory

MM protocol employed Swedish massage techniques (Hemmings, 2001; Tessier, 2005), including effleurage (light stroking), friction, petrissage (kneading and rolling), vibration and tapotement (light percussion). Massage was applied for 20 minutes total, distributed as: 10 minutes on the right and 10 minutes on the left lower extremity. Posterior lower-extremity massage included the gluteal region, posterior thigh, and calf muscles. Anterior lower-extremity massage included only the quadriceps. Applications were performed from distal to proximal direction using baby oil by certified masseur. Anterior leg massage in a supine position and posterior leg massage in a prone position was applied

A medium density, grid structured foam roller (Blackroll Standard, 33×15×14 cm, PVC polypropylene, Bottighofen, Switzerland) was used. Participants performed self-myofascial release by placing the lower extremities on the foam roller and rolling forward and backward to relax fascia surrounding the muscle with medium pressure. Total duration of FR lasted 20 minutes: 10 minutes left and 10 minutes right lower extremity. Rolling was performed at a controlled cadence (\~30 cycles/min) guided by a metronome with moderate pressure.