The effect of tissue flossing on ankle range of motion, jump and sprint performance in elite rugby ‎union athletes

Abstract

Context: Given the relatively novel technique of tissue flossing is currently lacking in the research literature despite some positive findings in preliminary studies, the modality clearly requires further research. Current evidence suggests that band flossing results in performance improvements and may also be an effective method in injury prevention.

Objective: Previous research has shown that tissue flossing may result in increased ankle ROM, jump and sprinting performance in recreational athletes. The present study aims to extend on this research, within an elite athlete sample.

Design: counter-balanced, crossover design with experimental and control trials, separated by one week.

Setting: University laboratory.

Participants: 14 professional male rugby union athletes (mean ± SD: age; 23.9 ± 2.7).

Intervention: Application of a floss band to both ankles (FLOSS) for two minutes or without flossing of the ankle joints (CON) on two separate occasions.

Main Outcome Measures: A weight-bearing lunge test (WBLT), a countermovement (CMJ) jump test and a 20m sprint (SPRINT) test pre and at 5 and 30 minutes post application of the floss band or control.

Results: There were no statistically significant interactions between treatment (FLOSS/CON) and time for any of the measured variables (p > 0.05). Effect size analysis revealed small benefits for FLOSS in comparison to CON for CMJ performance 5 mins post (d = 0.28) and for 10m (d = -0.45) and 15m (d = -0.24) sprint time 30 mins post.

Conclusion: Findings from the current study suggest minimal benefits of tissue flossing when applied to the ankle joint in elite athletes for up to 30 minutes following their application.