Using a technique to improve calf muscle stiffness and ankle movement
Effect of Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization on Gastrocnemius Muscle Stiffness and Ankle Dorsiflexion Range of Motion
This study tests if a special massage technique can help improve calf muscle stiffness and ankle movement in healthy adults aged 18 to 45.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 38 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 35 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Primorska Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Izola) |
| Trial ID | NCT06934694 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effects of instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) on the stiffness of the gastrocnemius muscle and the range of motion in the ankle. Healthy volunteers aged 18 to 45 will undergo baseline measurements followed by a standardized IASTM intervention. Muscle stiffness will be assessed using shear-wave elastography, while ankle mobility will be measured with the weight-bearing lunge test. The goal is to determine if IASTM can produce immediate improvements in muscle properties and joint flexibility.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy individuals aged 18 to 45 without current lower limb injuries.
Not a fit: Patients with recent lower limb injuries or conditions affecting muscle tone or flexibility may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this technique could enhance rehabilitation and performance by improving muscle flexibility and joint mobility.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific application of IASTM in this context is novel, similar manual therapy techniques have shown promise in improving muscle and joint function in other studies.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age between 18 and 45 years * Healthy individuals without current lower limb injury * No history of surgery to the ankle, knee, or calf * Able to perform the weight-bearing lunge test without assistance * Willing to refrain from intense lower-limb exercise 24 hours before testing Exclusion Criteria: * Current or recent (past 3 months) lower limb musculoskeletal pain or injury * Known neuromuscular or vascular disorders affecting the lower extremity * Use of medications affecting muscle tone or flexibility within 48 hours prior to testing * Previous adverse reactions to manual therapy or IASTM * Skin lesions, bruising, or conditions over the gastrocnemius that contraindicate IASTM * Pregnancy
Where this trial is running
Izola
- University of Primorska, Faculty of Health Sciences, Izola — Izola, Slovenia (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Žiga Kozinc, PhD
- Email: ziga.kozinc@fvz.upr.si
- Phone: +38640161503
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.