Deep transverse friction massage (DTFM) is used to treat pain and restricted range of motion. It is known to decrease nerve excitability and performance. However, few studies have focussed on the function of antagonist muscles. This study aimed to determine the effect of DTFM on the antagonist muscle in comparison with stretching.

Overall, 33 healthy male participants (mean age, 23.1±4.2 years) were randomised into three groups: DTFM (n=11), stretching (n=11), and control (n=11). DTFM was performed on the hamstrings for a duration of 10minutes. Stretching of 10–40seconds was statically applied to the hamstrings followed by 20-second rest. The control was provided 10-minutes of rest. Peak torque (PT) at a speed of 60°/s and 120°/s on quadriceps and hamstrings, respectively, were the outcome measures, and muscle reaction time, namely, pre-motor time (PMT) and electromechanical delay (EMD) on the rectus and biceps femoris. Two-way analysis of variance for repeated measures was used to evaluate statistical significance of all the measured variables.

Therefore, no difference was found between the subjects and within groups in all measurements (P<0.05). The result indicated that adding DTFM or stretching on the hamstrings did not affect PT, PMT, and EMD on the quadriceps.

A previous study described reaction time change only when the muscle tendon was treated using DTFM. It was also considered that the difference in treatment site could affect neural mechanisms. In conclusion, this study showed that using DTFM for the treatment of hamstrings improve neither PT nor muscle reaction time on the quadriceps.