Comparing IASTM and Foam Rolling for Flexibility in Soccer Players

Effects of Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization vs. Foam Rolling on Knee and Hip Flexibility and Performance in Soccer Players

Not applicable Interventional Riphah International University · NCT06101615

This study is testing whether using special tools for muscle treatment or foam rolling can help soccer players become more flexible and improve their performance over eight weeks.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment10 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 35 Years
SexMale
SponsorRiphah International University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory)
Trial IDNCT06101615 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effects of instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) versus foam rolling on the flexibility and performance of soccer players. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups, with one group receiving IASTM treatment and the other foam rolling, over an 8-week intervention period. Flexibility will be assessed through knee and hip range of motion measurements at multiple time points, while performance will be evaluated using tests such as the sit and reach test, 100m sprint speed test, and Illinois agility run test. The study seeks to determine both the immediate and long-term benefits of these interventions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are soccer players with a normal BMI who have at least one year of professional experience and participate in regular training.

Not a fit: Patients with pathological conditions affecting their musculoskeletal system or recent unhealed injuries may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance flexibility and performance in soccer players, potentially reducing the risk of injury.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown positive outcomes with both IASTM and foam rolling, suggesting potential benefits from this comparative approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Individuals with normal BMI
* Players with at least one year of playing professional soccer and taking at least three training sessions/matches per week.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Players with any pathological conditions affecting any of the system.
* Suffering from recent acute unhealed MSK injury/Trauma.

Where this trial is running

Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Muscle TightnessFATFoam RollingIASTMJoint FlexibilitySoccer
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.