Abstract

The aim of the research was to prove influence of underwater massage upon some neurophysiological indices of the motor system. Fifteen judo fighters and a control group of 15 men were examined. Underwater massage was applied according to the general known procedure in water temperature 34-36 degrees C over 30 minutes. The examination was mainly to measure the time of simple reflex as a reaction to sensory and light stimuli, Achilles tendon reflex (T-reflex), Hoffmann reflex and the velocity of nerve conduction and the effort function of the muscle (EMG). The results of the examination suggest that underwater massage improves the efficiency of the central motor centre and at the same time increases the peripheral motoneuron reactivity. Immediately after the procedure, the muscle effort ability is improved as well. Furthermore, it was proved that increased physical activity does not affect the scale and the direction of the reaction examined. Verf.-Referat