Sports massage, a type of deep tissue Swedish massage, was originally developed for athletes looking to maintain optimum physical performance while training and to prevent and treat injury.
But the reality is that anyone experiencing restricted movement in the body or chronic pain can benefit from sports massage therapy, no matter their level of fitness. It is effective in treating the symptoms of fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel, osteoarthritis and many other chronic conditions.
Sports massage helps to circulate the blood and lymphatic fluids, stretch muscle tissue and break down scar tissue. The intensity of the massage and specific techniques used depend on the individual and whether they are training for an event, require post-event restoration or have an injury and need rehabilitation.
Pre event sports massage
A brief 10-15 minute massage given approximately 30 minutes prior to an event to stimulate the main muscle groups to be exerted. The massage therapist applies friction and heat to warm up the tissues and performs gentle stretches to prepare the muscles for a warm-up.
Post event massage
During a post event massage, muscles are manipulated to prevent injury and normalize muscle tissue. This massage may be performed between 30 minutes and up to several hours after an event. Techniques include effleurage (stroking), petrissage (kneading), joint mobilization and assisted stretching. The pressure may be deep if no muscle damage is apparent.
Restorative sports massage
This type of massage is given during training and will benefit anyone who exercises regularly or experiences sore muscles due to repetitive movement or poor posture. This restorative massage helps to prevent injury and resolve musculoskeletal problems by stimulating the muscles and reducing trigger points. Regular restorative massage will optimize the body’s range of motion and provide relief from muscle and joint pain.
Rehabilitative sports massage
When muscles and tendons are compromised due to overuse or trauma, many sports massage therapists will use myofascial release to stretch the connective tissue (fascia) and break down scar tissue. The therapist will apply deep pressure with the hands or fingers, beginning gently and increasing the force until the tissues relax.
This type of therapeutic massage enables the flow of nutrients and oxygen to the soft tissue and removes waste from inside deep tissue.
Post-effects of a deep-tissue sports massage
Depending on the timing of your massage and level of discomfort or injury, you may experience soreness, headaches, tiredness and dehydration in the hours and couple of days following treatment. This will fade and is a natural reaction to the release of toxins from the body. As this reaction fades, you will feel a greater sense of well-being and release.
Making the most of your massage
- Reduce the risk of injury with regular treatments
Regular massage therapy will help to ensure your body remains in peak condition and fully responsive to whatever repetitive movements form part of your daily life. Unfortunately, many people wait until they experience sore muscles or even injury before they seek out therapy, making the massage rehabilitative rather than restorative.
- Pre-treatment
It’s best not to eat right before a treatment. Not only will you feel uncomfortable if your stomach is full, but you will also find it more difficult to fully relax. Do make sure that you drink plenty of water in the hours before your treatment but again, not right before; there’s nothing worst than a full bladder during a relaxing massage treatment.
Remember to communicate fully with your therapist regarding areas of discomfort and your preferred level of pressure.
- During treatment
A deep tissue massage can be uncomfortable so it’s important to stay in communication with your therapist. If the pressure is painful, and you find yourself holding your breath, the treatment may do more harm than good. Try to relax and breathe deeply during the session; this will help to oxygenate the muscles and ease discomfort.
- Post treatment
Take your time to bring your awareness back to the room and to come to a standing position following your treatment. Drink water immediately and continue to do so for the rest of the day to help eliminate toxins from the body.
Try to avoid intense activity in the 24 hours following a deep tissue massage. Stay hydrated and rest the muscles if possible.
Book your sports massage online by clicking the button below, or call the clinic at 604-857-3599.