Introduction
Sports massage is focused and systematic, targeting muscles that are used in a specific sport. It uses various techniques to decrease muscle pain and improve recovery, as well as improve overall range of motion and flexibility to support safe and effective movement. A sports massage is different from a regular massage in that it addresses specific muscles or injury-related areas affected by the activity we’re doing. Regular massage therapy focuses on general relaxation, stress management, and pain reduction.
A sports massage can assist with training, rehabilitation, and pre- or post-performance goals. While often sought by elite and amateur athletes, sports massage can also be beneficial for anyone who regularly exercises.
Various movements and techniques are used to try to help an athlete’s body achieve maximum performance and physical conditioning, with a decreased chance of injury or pain and a quicker recovery.
Sports Massage Techniques Include:
- Effleurage (stroking)
- Petrissage (kneading)
- Compression
- Friction
- Tapotement (rhythmic striking)
- Vibration
- Gliding
- Stretching
- Percussion
- Trigger points
When Sports Massage is Used:
- To treat Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS)
- As part of a training programme
- Post-event
- Pre-event
- To relieve tight muscles
Physiological Effects of Sports Massage:
- Increased venous return
- Increased temperature
- Increased lymphatic drainage
- Increased tissue elasticity
- Breakdown of adhesions
- Breakdown of scar tissue
- Promotion of relaxation
Key Benefits of Sports Massage:
- Reduced Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS)
- Decreased pain
- Increased muscle flexibility
- Improved recovery
- Maximised performance
- Injury prevention
Conclusion
A sports massage is highly used to treat musculoskeletal injuries, increase muscle condition and flexibility. There are a wide range of techniques used in sports massage. A sports massage is used on many occasions including, pre-event, post-event, as part of a training programme , and to treat tight muscles.
A sports massage is a beneficial treatment to help treat and reduce many conditions. This helps decrease pain, increase muscle flexibility, improve recovery after injury, maximise performance, and prevent injuries from occurring.
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