Massage

Massage is an excellent way of relieving tension & tiredness allowing the body to relax.

Muscle tension can affect anyone. Remedial massage can offer help to those who suffer from back, neck or shoulder pain which may be brought on by decorating, gardening or even driving. Many postural problems occur as a result of sedentary activities such as sitting at a computer all day.

These problems can be treated in the same way as those of an active sportsperson. Repetitive strain injury, whiplash, frozen shoulder, headache, migraine, stiff neck & backache can all be relieved with massage. Stress & tiredness are also common problems that can be alleviated.

Sports & remedial massage is often very beneficial for those who have had an operation as it will help a body regain full function & movement. Physical disabilities & systemic illness can also be aided. It is important to mention here that for some conditions massage is not a suitable treatment but a qualified practitioner will be able to offer advice on this. They will also seek advice from your medical team in order to provide treatment that is suitable for your condition.

Sports Massage

Sports massage is a specific area of massage therapy that has been developed to help improve sports performance. Remedial techniques are incorporated into a massage treatment to help improve the body’s movement & to deal with injuries & postural problems. Sports massage is deep tissue massage which will stimulate the muscular & nervous systems rather than just offering the relaxation of a holistic massage. It can be adapted to enhance pre-event preparation & warm-up, to offer assistance during an event & to aid recovery post-event.

Sports people place stresses on their body by frequent training & competitions. Rest days, stretching, good diet & hydration will help the body recover but sometimes more is needed. Sports massage will aid blood circulation removing waste products from tired muscles & will stretch out muscles that have become tight from repeated use.

Many athletes use regular sports massage to help maintain optimal athletic performance. Sports massage is also an effective way of detecting minor soft tissue problems & dealing with them before a more serious injury occurs.

Examples of sports injuries that can benefit from sports & remedial massage treatment are

sprains
strains
achilles tendonitis
runners’ knee
shin splints
tennis/golfer’s elbow
plantar fasciitis
piriformis syndrome
& tight muscles generally