Introduction. Delayed onset muscle soreness is an effect of physical activity. DOMS is manifested by mechanical muscle hyperalgesia, occasional resting pain, and altered motor control. There are different strategies to alleviate delayed onset muscle soreness i.e. nutritional intervention, ice, heat, massage, anti-inflammatory drugs and stretching. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of deep tissue massage on delayed onset muscle soreness assessed by pressure pain threshold in martial arts athletes. Material and methods. 11 karate fighters were subjected to weight training, and then to a series of deep tissue massage therapy sessions. All participants compete on national and international level; all subjects were Polish Champions in their weight categories. Pressure pain threshold was measured seven times using an pressure algometer. The first measurement was taken just before weight training, and the last one at 72 hours after exercise. Results. The pressure pain threshold for rectus femoris muscle decreased significantly 24 hours after weight training and 24 hours after weight training, after the massage session. The pressure pain threshold for gastrocnemius muscle decreased significantly 24 hours after weight training; 24 hours after weight training, after the massage session; 48 hours after weight training and 48 hours after weight training, after the massage session. Conclusions. Present study suggests a potent effect of deep tissue massage on alleviating delayed onset muscle soreness after weight training in karate.
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