Fao

Researchers are evaluating the effects of myofascial self-release on muscle properties, performance, neuromuscular function, and injury risk reduction in young male soccer players aged 14 to 18 years. This randomized clinical trial aims to test whether using a structured massage roller reduces injuries and improves muscle flexibility, balance, strength, and control over about five months. Participants are divided into two groups an experimental group performing myofascial self-release with a roller on their quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves twice a week for 2 minutes per muscle group before training, and a control group maintaining regular training without intervention. The study assesses muscle stiffness, flexibility, ankle motion, motor control, reactive strength, jump height, and air time before, immediately after, and at 8 and 16 weeks post-intervention. Participants will undergo various tests including myotonometry to measure muscle properties, sit-and-reach for flexibility, ankle dorsiflexion range via a lunge test, balance with the Y Balance Test, and jump performance using the Myjump App. Researchers will track injury incidence over approximately five months and monitor neuromuscular and mechanical changes during the study. The procedures are non-invasive and include guidance on correct roller use and standardized testing positions.