The perceived and physiological changes in individuals receiving percussive therapeutic interventions

Abstract

Background: This study investigates the physiological and perceptual effects of percussive therapy (PT) using portable devices. Despite its growing popularity, there is a lack of comprehensive evidence on its benefits and potential drawbacks. By critically reviewing existing literature, this study aims to fill this gap, informing clinical guidelines and optimising the use of PT in physical therapy and healthcare. Research question: Do physiological and perceived changes occur when undergoing percussive massage therapy with handheld devices? This research question was formulated using the PICO framework: P - Individuals, I - Percussion therapy using handheld devices, C - No percussion therapy, O - Physiological and perceived changes. Search method: A comprehensive review of the literature was undertaken by searching multiple electronic databases and manually scanning references. Filters and criteria were employed to narrow down the search results. Only studies meeting specific criteria, including systematic reviews (SRs), meta-analyses, and randomised controlled trials (RCTs), conducted in English, were included. The included studies examined the effects of handheld percussion devices on both physiological and perceived changes in the body resulting from their use. Nine key studies were selected, two SRs and seven RCTs, and critically appraised using the CASP tool. Results: The studies consistently show that percussion therapy using a device improves range of motion and flexibility while reducing muscle pain and stiffness. However, there's no notable enhancement in strength or physical performance based on the combined results. Conclusions: It was concluded that the use of handheld percussive devices on individuals led to improvements in range of motion, flexibility, and muscle pain, although evidence regarding changes in strength and physical performance is inconclusive. Recommendation: Further research efforts involve exploring matters on a local scale, increased sample sizes, rigorous research standards, and standardised protocols to enhance treatment effectiveness and ensure suitability to local contexts. The incorporation of percussion massage into physiotherapy, coupled with ongoing education and meticulous management, underscores its potential advantages, and emphasises the significance of evidence-based healthcare delivery.