Whether you're training for an important game or running a marathon, sports massage can help you achieve optimal performance. During sports massage, long, soothing strokes relax the muscles while shorter, firmer movements loosen them and break down muscle adhesions or knots.
While this process can be slightly uncomfortable, the level of discomfort depends on a client's pain threshold and therapist technique. Open communication between the therapist and client is crucial to manage the intensity of the session and ensure an enjoyable experience!
Pressure
During the session the therapist manipulates the musculoskeletal structure (muscles, tendons and ligaments) and pressure can be applied to create change. This can be uncomfortable at times but it should not be unbearably painful. It is important for the client to communicate with their therapist at all times to ensure techniques are matched to their pain tolerance,’ Penny explains.
Increasing tissue temperature during massage promotes the removal of metabolic waste and delivery of oxygen to cells. This can help with muscle fatigue. It can also increase the flexibility of muscles, fascia, ligaments and tendons making them less prone to strains and sprains.
A sports massage can be helpful for athletes at any stage of their sport. However, it is particularly beneficial before and after intense training or competitions to reduce DOMS and aid recovery. It is also beneficial in between sessions to maintain a balanced training programme and reduce the risk of injury. It is important for underage athletes to discuss this treatment with their parents or coaches before booking a session.
Techniques
Sports massage uses techniques like compression, petrissage (squeezing), and vibration to stimulate muscles. It also employs stretching manipulations to improve flexibility and range of motion.
Clients’ pain tolerance and the specific techniques used can impact the level of discomfort during a session. It’s important for clients to communicate their comfort levels so that the therapist can adjust pressure and technique as needed.
Discomfort during a session can also be caused by the fact that muscles are tight, which can make them feel tense and stretched. This discomfort should not be unbearable, and it is a good sign that the therapist is working effectively.
Increasing muscle elasticity helps improve athletic longevity and enhances performance. A regular massage can help prevent muscle imbalances, reduce injury risk, and promote overall physical well-being. It can also help athletes train harder and perform better at games and meets, as well as recover more quickly. This translates into greater success and a longer career in their chosen sport.
Preparation
Athletes who implement sports massage in their training schedules report faster recovery from injuries, better performance at meets, games and during workouts and reduced risk of future injury. It’s not just athletes who benefit, anyone with an active lifestyle can reap the benefits of regular sessions.
The level of discomfort felt during a session varies from person to person and depends on their pain threshold, the specific techniques being used and the amount of tension held in the muscles. Maintaining open communication with your therapist is crucial so they can manage the pressure applied and ensure the experience is as comfortable as possible.
After a session muscles are often achy and this is referred to as delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS). It’s important to take time to recover after a sports massage to prevent further injury or inflammation. This is achieved by staying hydrated, resting and avoiding any exercises that could exacerbate the soreness. A recovery plan also helps improve the effectiveness of the treatment and enhances long-term success.
Recovery
During the recovery process after sports massage it is important to rest. This will help reduce the risk of injury and allow muscles to recover and heal. It is also a good idea to avoid exercising too vigorously as this could exacerbate the soreness and prevent recovery from happening as quickly. Instead, opt for light activities such as walking, swimming or yoga.
Drinking plenty of water is another good tip for a successful sports massage experience. This is because kneading the muscles can cause dehydration as fluid is drawn from the soft tissue into the circulation system and heads towards the kidneys. It is also a good idea to stay away from caffeinated drinks and alcohol post-massage as these are diuretics that promote water loss through urine.
The level of discomfort a client experiences during a sports massage can vary depending on their pain threshold and the techniques used by their therapist. It is history of sports massage important that clients communicate with their therapist to ensure that the pressure being applied is comfortable. This will enable sessions to be optimised for effectiveness.
