Performance Study: Effects of Pro Muscle Release Therapy

by Dr. Mike Flores D.C., C.C.S.P® Dr. Christopher Chang D.C., and Connor Naasz

Objective:

The Pro Muscle Release (PMR) is a therapeutic modality that precisely administers the benefits of percussion therapy. This patented technology delivers rapid, mechanical percussions that penetrate multiple muscle layers, thereby promoting healing and accelerated recovery.
The aim of the study was to compare the effects of PMR on the athletic performance of subjects when compared to traditional foam rolling treatment.

Methods:

Six cross country runners, aged 16-19 (4 females and 2 males) were divided into two treatment groups. The first group received 15 minutes of PMR to their lower extremities while the second group was provided an equal amount of time using traditional foam rolling procedures. Any runners previously treated by the PMR were excluded, only runners allowed to participate had never been treated by the PMR. After a rest period of 15 minutes, subjects were asked to perform a standing vertical jump (measured using a VerTec) and a 25 yard sprint; speed on turf, hand timed. We used a track coach with no affiliation with the PMR and the cross country athletes to time in order to avoid any bias.

The two treatments were conducted over an 8-week period utilizing the following schedule:

• Weeks 1-2, Treatment 2 times/week
• Weeks 3-4, Treatment 1 time/week
• Weeks 5-8, Treatment 1 time every other week

 

Results:

• A significant difference was found in the dependent measures of the 25 yard sprint and strong directional findings were found in the vertical jump:
• The PMR group Vertical Jump improved by an average of; Female 2.5 inches: Male 5 inches higher (male had 4 treatments)
• The PMR group 25-yard sprint improved by an average of; Female 0.33seconds faster: Male 0.17 seconds faster (male had 4 treatments)
• The foam roller group Vertical Jump improved by an average of; Female no change: Male 1.5 inches higher (male had 6 treatments)
• The foam roller group 25 yard sprint group improved by an average of; Female 0.155 seconds faster: Male 0.13 seconds faster (male had 6 treatments)

Conclusion:

The reason for this project was to investigate the relationship between PMR’s technology and traditional foam rolling techniques and how each influenced performance immediately after treatment.

Limitations of the study include but are not limited to: scheduling conflicts and possible human error.

For the next study we have a machine time the runs instead of a human to avoid that type of error.

Based on the significant findings of this study, it is suggested that a further study be conducted using more subjects for a longer period of time as well as including a control group.

The current study opens the doors for further research within the fields of sports medicine and chiropractic medicine.
IRB pending.