What to expect at a sports massage
A question I have been asked many times is “what should I expect from a Sports Massage”? It’s a great question, as there are a lot of different types of massage and talking to one of my clients I actually found out that he didn’t know what to expect and he wasn’t sure what the difference was between as he called it a “normal massage” and a sports massage. So to put your mind at rest, this is what will normally happen.
Your first Massage appointment
At your initial appointment we will discuss the reason you have come in for a massage and so that I can get a better understanding of what the problem may be and what any contributing factors are. My primary concern at this stage is to find out exactly what is wrong. I will ask you questions about any relevant medical history, your lifestyle and any previous injuries. We will also discuss the desired outcome of your session.
Most first appointments will include a postural assessment, ranges of movement and a visual / manual assessment of the area of pain. Most massages are conducted from my clinic but l do offer a portable service and can visit you if preferred.
I will leave the room while you undress to your level of comfort, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet or towel. You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed. I would also recommend to not eat too close to your appointment time to avoid any discomfort.
The Massage can now begin and will be a manual therapy and I use cream or oil when treating. There are varying techniques used such as deep tissue massage, muscle energy techniques and active/ passive stretching.
Who should go for a Sports Massage?
Absolutely anyone! Massage can help with everyday aches and pains, postural imbalances, aid the recovery processes between training sessions, improve blood circulation and tissue pliability, prevent injury and enhance sporting performance. You do not need to be an athlete or sports person to benefit from a sports massage.
Does a Sports Massage hurt?
The pressure can often be quite deep and may cause some discomfort but should never be too painful and the pressure applied can be adapted to suit. The deep tissue massage works on particular issues you may have, applying heavier pressure on layers of muscles and other deep tissues. Don’t expect to be comfortable throughout this massage. It’s designed to get into knots and tension the muscles may be holding. You’ll benefit more from a deep tissue or sports massage than you will a spa soft-and-gentle-and-smelling-good massage. However, these types of massages may not always be comfortable but your muscles will thank you for it.
Therefore it’s important to relax and keep your muscles relaxed during the treatment so that you do not tense up and l can focus on the areas that need attention. It is important that you talk to me and let me know what pressure is ok and when is enough. I also provide a similar but more relaxing massage as an alternative and we will work together to get the best result as comfortably as possible for you.
Is there anything I should do after a Sports Massage?
To aid recovery best to rest and drink plenty of water!! Your muscles may be a little sore afterwards, especially the first time as they may not be used to being massaged. Sports Massage releases toxins stored in your muscles into your bloodstream, and it is not uncommon for clients who do not drink plenty of water to feel a slight headache or very thirsty later that day.
I normally advise that a patient should refrain from any vigorous exercise or alcohol for 24 hours as your body will need to integrate the changes that have taken place as a result of the massage. Listen to your body, if it feels like it needs a day off, give it one.
I will also provide if appropriate, suitable remedial exercises and stretches at the end of the massage for you to complete in your own time.
A question I have been asked many times is “what should I expect from a Sports Massage”? It’s a great question, as there are a lot of different types of massage and talking to one of my clients I actually found out that he didn’t know what to expect and he wasn’t sure what the difference was between as he called it a “normal massage” and a sports massage. So to put your mind at rest, this is what will normally happen.
Your first Massage appointment
At your initial appointment we will discuss the reason you have come in for a massage and so that I can get a better understanding of what the problem may be and what any contributing factors are. My primary concern at this stage is to find out exactly what is wrong. I will ask you questions about any relevant medical history, your lifestyle and any previous injuries. We will also discuss the desired outcome of your session.
Most first appointments will include a postural assessment, ranges of movement and a visual / manual assessment of the area of pain. Most massages are conducted from my clinic but l do offer a portable service and can visit you if preferred.
I will leave the room while you undress to your level of comfort, relax onto the table, and cover yourself with a clean sheet or towel. You will be properly draped at all times to keep you warm and comfortable. Only the area being worked on will be exposed. I would also recommend to not eat too close to your appointment time to avoid any discomfort.
The Massage can now begin and will be a manual therapy and I use cream or oil when treating. There are varying techniques used such as deep tissue massage, muscle energy techniques and active/ passive stretching.
Who should go for a Sports Massage?
Absolutely anyone! Massage can help with everyday aches and pains, postural imbalances, aid the recovery processes between training sessions, improve blood circulation and tissue pliability, prevent injury and enhance sporting performance. You do not need to be an athlete or sports person to benefit from a sports massage.
Does a Sports Massage hurt?
The pressure can often be quite deep and may cause some discomfort but should never be too painful and the pressure applied can be adapted to suit. The deep tissue massage works on particular issues you may have, applying heavier pressure on layers of muscles and other deep tissues. Don’t expect to be comfortable throughout this massage. It’s designed to get into knots and tension the muscles may be holding. You’ll benefit more from a deep tissue or sports massage than you will a spa soft-and-gentle-and-smelling-good massage. However, these types of massages may not always be comfortable but your muscles will thank you for it.
Therefore it’s important to relax and keep your muscles relaxed during the treatment so that you do not tense up and l can focus on the areas that need attention. It is important that you talk to me and let me know what pressure is ok and when is enough. I also provide a similar but more relaxing massage as an alternative and we will work together to get the best result as comfortably as possible for you.
Is there anything I should do after a Sports Massage?
To aid recovery best to rest and drink plenty of water!! Your muscles may be a little sore afterwards, especially the first time as they may not be used to being massaged. Sports Massage releases toxins stored in your muscles into your bloodstream, and it is not uncommon for clients who do not drink plenty of water to feel a slight headache or very thirsty later that day.
I normally advise that a patient should refrain from any vigorous exercise or alcohol for 24 hours as your body will need to integrate the changes that have taken place as a result of the massage. Listen to your body, if it feels like it needs a day off, give it one.
I will also provide if appropriate, suitable remedial exercises and stretches at the end of the massage for you to complete in your own time.
