Our Chiropractic patients often have sports massage or Chiropractic massage before their Chiropractic treatment because we have found it to be beneficial together, aiding quicker results. The Chiropractor can instruct us as to exactly what muscle is causing them pain, and we work on it to improve the flexibility and tone of the muscle. Our goal is to increase in the range of motion of the joint in question. For instance, someone may be suffering from migraine and have a very stiff neck. We measure their range of motion in how far they can turn their head to the left or right and work on very specific muscles. Afterwards we reassess the patient to see how much improvement there is. In the back we would assess a movement such as bending and note the improvement of that motion after the sports massage.
Sports massage tends to be deeper and more intense. It is used when you suffer pain caused by an activity that resulted in overuse or over exertion on the muscles or ligaments of the body or joint.
Sports massage is a deeper massage focusing on certain parts of the body that require the treatment. Usually someone has had an injury following a bout of strenuous physical activity or overuse of a group of muscles. However, muscle strains and cramps can happen with many different activities. Even people with postural issues from sitting at a desk all day can benefit from a sports massage.
Sports massage is based on the various elements of Swedish massage and often incorporates a combination of other techniques involving stretching, compression, friction, toning, and trigger point techniques like Acupressure and Shiatsu. We bring together this blend of techniques, knowledge and advice during treatment, to work effectively with you to bring about optimum performance and to provide injury-free training and minimise post event injuries.
If you are a keen sports person then regular massage has a role to play in prevention and can help to improve your performance, mobility and long-term health.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR MASSAGE
You don’t need any special preparation for massage. Before a massage therapy session starts, there will be a form to fill in about your medical history, symptoms, hobbies and sports that you do.
In a typical massage therapy session, you undress or wear loose-fitting clothing. Undress only to the point that you’re comfortable. On the couch we will respect your dignity and cover any areas that we are not working on. If you can’t get on the table due to mobility problems we can massage you whilst sitting in a chair. We will evaluate how painful or tense the areas are to determine how much pressure to apply.
Depending on preference, your massage therapist may use oil or lotion to reduce the friction on your skin. Tell your massage therapist if you might be allergic to any ingredients. Also tell us if you bruise easily too.
Massage is an enjoyable experience. If it is too painful, or even if you feel the pressure is not deep enough, please let us know so that we can amend our touch to suit you.
THE BENEFITS OF MASSAGE
Reduces pain. Massage releases the tension in the muscles and allows the waste products in the body, which cause the pain, to flow.
Minimises event injuries. Regular massage can prevent sports injuries.
Improves Performance and Mobility. Tight muscles will restrict your performance and you will not be performing at your best. It will reduce your mobility and flexibility. Regular massage will overcome this.
Improves circulation and blood flow to the tissues. This again allows waste products to be removed and allows nutrients to pass through more easily. Lymph can move more easily and swelling can be reduced.
Breaks down scar tissue. Scar tissue lacks blood and nutrients and massage can break down this tissue and improve the blood supply to the muscles and tissues.
Breaks down hard muscles. Intense training can produce muscles which are too hard and inflexible. Stretching the muscle tissues helps to improve your flexibility.
Reduces Stress and Anxiety. Massage helps to release the body’s natural endorphins, which are the happy hormones. You feel happier after your treatment and are more relaxed. Your stress levels are reduced. Human touch is incredibly therapeutic
Improves Sleep. Massage is known to improve sleep patterns.
Improves Immunity. A 2010 study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that massage boosts patients’ white blood cell count. White blood cells defend the body from disease.
Improves Headaches. Massage can decrease the frequency and severity of tension headaches. Tension headaches involve the muscles of the neck and shoulders. They need to be relaxed and soft and massage can help you with this.
Improves Posture. Desk workers, beware. Postural stress can show up as pain and/or weakness in the back and buttocks caused by too much sitting. Massage can counteract the imbalance caused from having a desk job.
Increases Energy. Energy is stored in the muscles. If your muscles are tight its stagnant energy and likely to make you feel less energetic. A good work out on your muscles will increase your stamina and energy levels.
Because of the many benefits of massage, it is helpful for the following conditions:
- Anxiety
- Digestive disorders
- Fibromyalgia
- Headaches
- Insomnia related to stress
- Myofascial pain syndrome
- Soft tissue strains or injuries
- Sports injuries
- Temporomandibular joint pain
However, massage is not recommended if you suffer from any of the following
- Bleeding disorders or take blood-thinning medication
- Burns or healing wounds
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Fractures
- Severe osteoporosis
- Severe thrombocytopenia
- First 3 months of pregnancy
