Intermittent pneumatic compression does not improve post-match neuromuscular, biochemical or perceptual recovery in international-level youth soccer players: a randomized placebo-controlled trial
摘要
This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a single session of high-pressure intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) on post-match recovery in international level youth soccer players, using neuromuscular, biochemical, and perceptual markers.
MethodsForty-two observations (across 6 matches) of 23 elite U19 soccer players (age: 17.45 ± 0.72 years; height: 1.82 ± 0.06 m; body mass: 74.95 ± 6.45 kg) participated in this randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Following competitive matches, participants were assigned to receive either 30 min of high-pressure IPC (200 mmHg) or a placebo intervention (hydrant cream). Recovery status was assessed pre-match, and at 30 min, 24- and 48-hours post-match using countermovement jump height, low-frequency fatigue of the knee extensors (Myocene®), creatine kinase (CK) concentrations, and self-reported fatigue and soreness. Linear mixed models were used to examine the effects of time, group, and time x group interaction. Covariates such as perceived exertion, GPS metrics, and sleep metrics were included when appropriate.
ResultsNo significant time x group interactions were found for any of the variables under analysis (p = 0.089 to 0.834). Significant main effects of time were detected in CK, perceived fatigue and soreness (p < 0.001), confirming match-induced fatigue, but without group differences. Exploratory analyses revealed that internal and external load, as well as total sleep time influenced recovery markers, particularly CK and perceptual responses.
ConclusionA single session of high-pressure IPC does not seem to enhance post-match recovery in elite youth soccer players compared to a placebo, on neuromuscular, biochemical, and subjective markers.
Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov code NCT06636942 (date of registration: 02/10/2024).