Effects of friction massage of the popliteal fossa on dynamic changes in muscle oxygenation and ankle flexibility.
[Purpose] This study aimed to examine whether or not friction massage of the popliteal fossa would be effective for achieving dynamic changes in muscle oxygenation and ankle flexibility. [Subjects and Methods] Twelve healthy male university students participated. Before and after friction massage, dynamic changes in muscle oxygenation and ankle flexibility were measured by near-infrared spectroscopy to evaluate its efficacy. [Results] Oxygenated hemoglobin was significantly higher after as compared to before massage. The range of ankle dorsiflexion tended to increase after massage. [Conclusion] These results suggest that friction massage of the popliteal fossa stimulates venous return in the lower leg.
Department of Physical Therapy, Ibaraki Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Japan.
Koji
K
Iwamoto
Department of Physical Therapy, Ibaraki Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Japan.
Masafumi
M
Mizukami
Department of Physical Therapy, Ibaraki Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Japan.
Yasutsugu
Y
Asakawa
Senri Rehabilitation Hospital, Japan.
Masaharu
M
Yoshio
Sports Research and Development Core, Conditioning Department, University of Tsukuba, Japan.
Ryo
R
Ogaki
Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Science, University of Tsukuba, Japan.
Masahiro
M
Takemura
Friction massage; Muscle oxygenation; Near-infrared spectroscopy