Effect of Trigger Point Cryostimulation on Exercise-Induced Tremor in Adolescent Swimmers

This study investigates whether targeted cryostimulation of myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) can attenuate exercise-induced physiological tremor in adolescent swimmers. The study uses a randomized reversed crossover design in which each participant completes two experimental conditions: local cryostimulation of identified trigger points and a control condition without intervention.

Thirty-four competitive adolescent swimmers participate in the study. Physiological tremor of both lower limbs is measured using triaxial accelerometry under standardized conditions before and after a maximal 30-second tethered swimming effort.

In the cryostimulation condition, cold packs are applied for 60 seconds to identified myofascial trigger points in the quadriceps and hamstring muscle groups. In the control condition, no cryostimulation is applied prior to exercise.

The primary outcome is the change in tremor power in the 2-5 Hz frequency band following exercise. Secondary outcomes include tremor power in the 9-14 Hz frequency band and tremor frequency parameters. Tremor signals are analyzed using frequency-domain analysis based on power spectral density calculations derived from accelerometer data.

The aim of the study is to determine whether localized cryostimulation of myofascial trigger points can modulate neuromuscular responses to fatigue and reduce the magnitude of exercise-induced tremor in adolescent athletes.

Inclusion criteria

• - Competitive adolescent swimmers
• Age between 10 and 16 years
• Regular participation in swimming training (at least 3 training sessions per week)
• No current musculoskeletal injury affecting the lower limbs
• Ability to perform maximal swimming effort
• Written informed consent from participants and their legal guardians

Exclusion criteria

• - Current lower limb injury or pain
• Neurological disorders affecting motor control
• Contraindications to cold exposure or cryotherapy
• Participation in other interventions that could affect neuromuscular performance