The acute effect of releasing the thoracolumbar facia by osteopathic technique on lower extremity functional performance, on lumbar extensor endurance and on mobility in soccer players

Introduction: The aim of this study is to examine the acute effect of osteopathic release of the thoracolumbar fascia on lower extremity functional performance, lumbar extensor endurance and mobility in professional soccer players. Materials and Methods: 30 volunteer male athletes who professionally play soccer participated in the study, and the participants were randomly divided into experimental and control groups. The functional performance of the lower extremities, lumbar extensor endurance and mobility of the subjects were measured twice – before and immediately after the Still Technique and placebo applications. Subjects' lower extremity functional performance was determined by the Single Leg Hop Test, lumbar extensor endurance by the Beiring-Sorensen Extensor Endurance Test, and mobility skill by the Modified Schober Test. Results: According to the results of the statistical analysis, there was a significant difference between the pre-test and post-test values of the lumbar extensor endurance tests of the experimental group in favor of the post-test; however, there was no significant difference in lower extremity functional performance and mobility values, and it was determined that they improved in the post-test. Conclusions: Releasing the thoracolumbar fascia tissue with osteopathic technique before exercise in athletes can acutely increase performance by positively affecting muscle contraction.