Differences in Elbow Stiffness Comparing Massage to Stretching in Tennis Players

Background and Purpose: Shear wave elastography (SWE) provides quantifiable and specific data regarding muscle and tendon stiffness. Increased muscle and tendon stiffness plays a role in the development of musculoskeletal pathologies. A number of interventions have been proposed to temporarily reduce muscle/tendon stiffness including soft tissue mobilization (massage) and stretching. Purpose: To investigate the effects of soft tissue mobilization versus stretching on tissue stiffness in a group of competitive tennis players. Participants: Healthy competitive tennis players who meet the inclusion criteria and consent to participate will be assessed and treated at the University of Dayton Department of Physical Therapy. Methods: All participants will be examined with shear wave elastography to determine the stiffness of the dominant common extensor tendon with the participant in sitting, arm supported and relaxed. A second stiffness measure will be taken 5 minutes after the first measure to determine intra-rater reliability. Participants will be divided into 1 of 2 treatment groups (soft tissue massage or passive stretching) for approximately 5 minutes. Shear wave stiffness measures will be taken immediately after intervention for both groups. Shear wave elastography will be measured one final time following a 15-minute rest period after the intervention