Abstract
External counterpulsation (ECP), an electrocardiogram-led sequential compression of
lower limbs, has been recently proposed for sports recovery, but research is scant.
This study examined the effects of an ECP session upon neuromuscular function (vertical
jump and torque/velocity characteristics), biochemical responses (creatine kinase,
cortisol, testosterone, alpha-amylase and immunoglobulin-A), and muscle soreness (visual
analogue scale) following high-intensity exercise. Twenty-one male team sport athletes
(age: 21.6±3.4 yrs; height: 182.7±7.3 cm; body mass: 82.7±9.3 kg) recovered from the
fatiguing exercise using either ECP or rest. Data collection was conducted at three
separate time points: upon arrival (Pre), post-recovery (Post), and 24 h post-recovery
(24hPost). Significant main effects for time were observed for increased torque/velocity
slope and for decreased isometric extension peak torque (p<0.001). Significant main
effects for time were observed for increased creatine kinase, testosterone, alpha-amylase,
and muscle soreness (all p<0.001). Significant interaction effects were observed at
post-testing following ECP: Cortisol release and the related decline in testosterone/cortisol
ratio were attenuated, and immunoglobulin-A was increased following ECP in comparison
to the control (all p<0.05). Following high-intensity exercise, ECP has potentially
beneficial effects upon biomarkers of recovery, without affecting the neuromuscular
function.
Key words
fatigue - biomarkers - muscle soreness - peak power - torque/velocity relationship
- countermovement jump
