Evidence of the physiotherapeutic interventions used currently after exercise-induced muscle damage: Systematic review and meta-analysis

01 May 2012Rui Torresa, Fernando Ribeiroa, José Alberto Duarte, Jan M.H. Cabrid

Massage proved slightly effective in the relief of symptoms and signs of exercise-induced muscle damage. Therefore, its mean effect was too small to be of clinical relevance. There is a lack of evidence to support the use of cryotherapy, stretching and low-intensity exercise.

Meta Analysis
5 effects

Reported Outcomes

DeterminantsOutcomeDetails

Static Stretching Selfcare risk & protective factor
Minor Protective Factor Static Stretching
Selfcare

Exercise Recovery Musculoskeletal outcome
Minor increase risk of Exercise Recovery
Musculoskeletal system

Low evidence
1.0%

Dynamic stretching Selfcare risk & protective factor
Minor Protective Factor Dynamic stretching
Selfcare

Exercise Recovery Musculoskeletal outcome
Minor increase risk of Exercise Recovery
Musculoskeletal system

Low evidence
1.0%

Moderate Exercise Selfcare risk & protective factor
Minor Protective Factor Moderate Exercise
Selfcare

Exercise Recovery Musculoskeletal outcome
Minor increase risk of Exercise Recovery
Musculoskeletal system

Moderate evidence
0.4%

Massage Selfcare risk & protective factor
Minor Protective Factor Massage
Selfcare

Exercise Recovery Musculoskeletal outcome
Minor increase risk of Exercise Recovery
Musculoskeletal system

High evidence
1.0%

Contrast Water Therapy Selfcare risk & protective factor
Minor Protective Factor Contrast Water Therapy
Selfcare

Exercise Recovery Musculoskeletal outcome
Minor increase risk of Exercise Recovery
Musculoskeletal system

Low evidence
0.5%