Health, Exercise, and Sports Sciences ETDs

Publication Date

Spring 5-15-2027

Abstract

The study investigated the effects of percussion therapy using a Theragun™ device on markers of muscle damage following eccentric exercise. Eleven highly trained participants specializing in power performance (6 males, 5 females; age: 23 ± 6 years; height: 174.4 ± 11.7 cm; weight: 72.3 ± 13.9 kg) were randomly assigned to either percussion treatment (T) or sham treatment (S) groups. Participants performed 10 sets of 10 maximal effort lengthening contractions of the hamstring muscles followed by 2 minutes of one of the two treatment options. Muscle soreness, range of motion (ROM), single-leg broad jump distance, isokinetic strength, and serum creatine kinase activity were assessed at baseline, immediately post-exercise, post-treatment, and 24-, 48-, and 72-hours post-exercise. No significant group differences were observed throughout the study. These findings suggest that percussion therapy may not provide meaningful benefits for reducing muscle soreness, improving ROM or strength and functional performance outcomes following eccentric exercise.

Keywords

Theragun, percussion, massage gun, DOMS, fatigue, inflammation, muscle damage, intervention efficiency

Document Type

Thesis

Language

English

Degree Name

Physical Education, Sports and Exercise Science

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Health, Exercise, and Sports Sciences

First Committee Member (Chair)

Dr. Michael R. Deyhle

Second Committee Member

Dr. Christine Mermier

Third Committee Member

Dr. Robert Hyldahl

Fourth Committee Member

Dr. Whitley C. Atkins

Download

Available for download on Saturday, May 15, 2027

Share

COinS