The Role of Shiatsu Massage on Some Functional and Kinetic Variables in Athletes

Abstract

The research problem points to the variability in the results of using supportive therapeutic methods, in addition to the limited number of studies that have addressed the integration of manual therapy and electrical stimulation within a unified rehabilitation framework, especially among strength athletes. This research aims to identify the effectiveness of a rehabilitation program that integrates Shiatsu rehabilitation exercises and electrical stimulation in improving pain levels. The researcher used the experimental method as it was suitable for the nature of the study. The research population was defined as athletes practicing track and field who suffered from a simple lumbar disc herniation and who were attending physical therapy and rehabilitation centers during the study period. The number of participants was six. The researcher used several tests, including a pain level test and a trunk range of motion test. The researcher concluded that there is a relationship between fatigue and endorphins. Applying pressure with the fingers to the nerve supplying the contracted muscle due to high lactic acid accumulation can convert up to 80% of that acid into glycogen. Stimulating Shiatsu according to basic Namikoshi techniques for five minutes resulted in a statistically significant decrease in systolic blood pressure and heart rate (p < 0.01) compared to baseline measurements.