Evaluating the acute impact of diagonal mobilization on knee flexor and extensor strength in young soccer players: a randomized double-blind trial

Abstract Study aim: This study aimed to assess the acute effects of manual therapy, focusing on knee, hip, and sacroiliac joint mobilization (DM), on knee extension (KE) and flexion (KF) strength in young soccer athletes, with the goal of determining the impact of these critical factors on performance. Material and Methods: A randomized double-blind trial was conducted involving 32 regional-level soccer players aged 14 to 16. Participants were randomly allocated to either receive DM treatment or a placebo condition, serving as the control group. Assessments were conducted before and after intervention, measuring standing KE and KF strength using the ForceFrame Strength Testing System. Results: Results following DM showed significantly better outcomes compared to the control condition for KE average force ( p = 0.002), KE maximal force ( p = 0.032), and KF maximal force ( p = 0.021), while no significant difference was observed in KF average force ( p = 0.107). Conclusions: The results demonstrated significant improvements in both KE and KF strength following the DM intervention, highlighting its potential as a strategy to enhance athletic readiness and performance. This approach could be utilized before matches or training, particularly for athletes requiring individualized intervention, such as those recovering from injuries or in key moments of the season.