Comparison of Acute Effects of Classical Massage and Connective Tissue Massage on Lower Extremity Blood Flow Changes

This study aimed to compare the immediate effects of connective tissue massage and classical massage on lower extremity blood circulation in healthy adults, and to better understand the mechanism of connective tissue massage. Twenty healthy participants underwent a 40-minute classical massage on the left lower limb. One week later, the same individuals received a connective tissue massage. Using color Doppler ultrasound, the diameter, flow velocity, and blood volume of the popliteal and posterior tibial arteries were measured before and after each session. Both massage methods led to significant increases in blood flow velocity, vessel diameter, and blood volume (p<0.05). However, connective tissue massage was more effective than classical massage in increasing the flow velocity and volume in the popliteal artery, as well as the diameter and volume in the posterior tibial artery (p<0.05). There was no significant difference between the two techniques regarding the diameter of the popliteal artery and the flow velocity of the posterior tibial artery (p>0.05). Overall, while both methods improved circulation, connective tissue massage produced greater improvements in peripheral blood volume, suggesting it may be more beneficial when enhanced vascular response is desired.