Evaluation of the Effect of Lymphatic Massage on Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness Reduction of the Quadriceps Femoris

<ns3:p>Introduction: Massage in one of the most popular treatments supporting sports training.Objective: The aim of this study is to gain understanding regarding the effectiveness of lymphatic massage in aiding the post-exercise recovery of the quadriceps femoris muscle following maximum-intensity interval training.Material and Methods: The research participants comprised 33 individuals between the age of 19 and 25, including 23 women and 10 men. In the study group (n=16), lymphatic massage was used after the training. There was no treatment in the control group (n=17). All participants performed lower limb training – vertical jumps in the Tabata formula. Research tools: VAS scale, long jump and International Physical Activity Questionnaire. Measurements (pain, lower limb power) were repeated.Results: In Group 1 (study), where lymphatic massage was applied, the highest level of muscle pain was noted at 24 h following the effort, while in Group 2 (control), this was observed at 48 h. In both groups, significant regression (p&lt;0.05) of lower limb power was noted in the two days after training.Conclusion: In the study group, lymphatic massage reduced delayed-onset muscle soreness, suggesting that it could be used as a method to accelerate post-exercise recovery.</ns3:p>