This treatment is
not just for the sports person: anyone can benefit from sports massage,
including people in physically demanding jobs and those not quite so obvious
(occupational, emotional and postural stress may produce many similar
characteristics to sports injuries).
Sports massage
tends to be deeper and more intense. It is based on the various elements of
Swedish massage and often incorporates a combination of other techniques
involving stretching, compression, friction, toning, and trigger point response
techniques similar to Acupressure and Shiatsu. The skilled therapist brings
together this blend of techniques, knowledge and advice during treatment, to
work effectively with the client to bring about optimum performance and to
provide injury-free training and minimise post event injuries.
Benefits
and Effects
There are three areas where sports massage is used to
benefit athletes.
Maintenance
Massage:
A regular massage treatment programme based on the therapist’s understanding
of anatomy and of the muscles used in a given sport and which are likely
candidates for trouble. By concentrating on particular muscle groups the
therapist can help the athlete maintain or improve range of motion and muscle
flexibility.
Event
Massage:
Pre-event and post-event massage therapies are tailored for distinct purposes.
Pre-event treatment is used as a supplement to an athlete’s warm-up to enhance
circulation and reduce excess muscle and mental tension prior to competition. It
is tailored to the needs of the athlete and his/her event and can be relaxing or
stimulating as appropriate. Post-event massage, on the other hand, is geared
towards reducing the muscle spasms and metabolic build-up that occur with
rigorous exercise. Various sports massage techniques enhance the body’s own
recovery process improving the athlete’s ability to return to training and
competition, and reducing the risk of injury.
Rehabilitation:
Even with preventative maintenance, muscles cramp, tear, bruise, and ache.
Sports massage can speed healing and reduce discomfort during the rehabilitation
process.
-
Soft tissue
techniques employed by sports massage therapists are effective in the
management of both acute and chronic injuries.
-
Trigger point
techniques reduce the spasm and pain that occur both in the injured and
"compensation" muscles.
-
Cross-fibre
friction techniques can help with healing by improved formation of strong
and flexible repair tissue, which is vital in maintaining full pain-free
range of motion during rehabilitation.
- Sports Massage
- Swedish and Therapeutic Massage
- Indian Head Massage
- Deep Tissue Massage
- Relaxing Massage
Antistress
- Neck/Shoulders/Back
treatment
Massage in Pregnancy: click here
Massage Therapy Gift Certificates Available