What Is Sports Massage?
Sports massage is a type of massage that can reduce and release tension in muscles, improve circulation, encourage the removal of waste products such as lactic acid, which can build up during high intensity activity, and can also help to relax the body. During a sports massage the musculoskeletal system is manipulated using hands-on techniques.
Those who exercise or train a lot can be prone to overuse injuries and may benefit from regular sports massage to help aid recovery from heavy training periods. Sports massage can help promote recovery and reduce the chance of muscle injury. In addition to the physical benefits, sports massage can help aid relaxation prior to competition or busy training periods.
Who Can Benefit From Sports Massage?
You don’t have to be an athlete to benefit from a Sports Massage! You may have a physical job, enjoy regular recreational running or even take part in repetitive heavy hobbies (eg Gardening). Sports massage can benefit many people. If you put your body through its paces on a regular basis then a sports massage can be of benefit to you.
When Should I Have A Sports Massage?
Sports massage can be beneficial during periods where you have been doing more than normal, eg increasing training, busy work periods or doing DIY projects at home.
You may find regular massage treatment beneficial if you are prone to injury or pain. Your physiotherapist may recommend attending for massage in combination with a bespoke exercise program to maintain mobility in the musculoskeletal system.
If you have trained for a specific event or competition, then having a sports massage before and after can benefit. Pre-event massage can boost circulation and reduce muscle tension, whilst also assisting with mental preparation. Post-event sports massage can be used to enhance the body’s recovery. It can allow a participant to return more quickly to training and competition and reduce the risk of injury following the event.
Our sports massage therapists at ProMOTION Physiotherapy help many people who have been training for a specific event. For example, walking the West Highland Way, Edinburgh Marathon, Triathlons and Cycling challenges.
Should I Have A Sports Massage Or A Physiotherapy Session?
Sports massage is a great way to encourage recovery and help with injury prevention. However, if you have sustained a specific injury that is preventing you from participating in sport or general activity then we would recommend that you book in for a Physiotherapy Assessment. This will allow an accurate diagnosis of your injury and an appropriate treatment and rehabilitation plan devised specifically for your problem by one of our Chartered Sports Physiotherapists.
To book a sports massage please go to our booking page here.
