Massage for sports and activity injuries

Sports massage is an effective and beneficial form of massage therapy. Muscular tension and soft tissue injuries cause pain and dysfunction. They can be treated safely and effectively with massage, preventing the build up of scar tissue and decreasing the likelihood of further injury.

Sports massage is not only for those who exercise regularly. Occupational and repetitive activities, including computer work and gardening often cause our muscles to tighten and shorten, this could possibly result in discomfort. Massage can be used to treat these problems.

How can massage help?

You will need to understand why you are using a sports massage practitioner. Is it part of ongoing regular training, part of recovering from an event or to help rehabilitate from an injury? Your sports massage practitioner will talk to you about this during your first initial consultation. They will devise a suitable program for your body, your sport and the problems you need to address.

Due to the nature of the manipulation of deep tissue, it can be uncomfortable at first, but your body will respond as muscle stiffness reduces and flexibility increases.

Other advanced bodywork techniques may be used including Soft Tissue Release (STR), Neuromuscular Technique (NMT), Connective Tissue Manipulation (CTM) and Muscle Energy Techniques (MET)

Regular sports massage can improve athletic performance, because the reduction in muscle soreness associated with training is reduced. Sports massage allows athletes to train longer and more effectively.

The psychological effects of a treatment include improving self-esteem and reduced anxiety. This can help prepare the athlete for their sporting event, and will benefit athletes of all levels and abilities.