Physiotherapy Clinic based in the centre of St. Albans
Sports Massage:
Sports massage is used to treat all levels of athletes and all types of sports injuries. We are a recommended London Marathon Injury clinic with experience of working with elite athletes and dancers.
What is sports massage?
Sports massage is a type of massage therapy that focuses on the muscles and joints that are involved in a specific sport or physical activity. It uses different techniques, such as stroking, kneading, compression, friction, tapping, vibration, stretching and trigger point therapy, to manipulate the soft tissues and reduce tension, pain and inflammation. Sports massage can also help improve blood flow, eliminate waste products, increase flexibility and enhance range of motion.
When is sports massage useful?
Sports massage can be applied before, during, or after an event or a training session. Depending on the goal and the timing, sports massage can have different effects. For example:
- Pre-event sports massage can help warm up the muscles, increase circulation and prepare the body for optimal performance. It can also reduce anxiety and improve mood.
- Inter-event sports massage can help maintain the muscle condition, prevent fatigue and address any minor injuries or problems that may occur during the event.
- Post-event sports massage can help cool down the muscles, restore normal blood flow and speed up recovery. It can also reduce delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS), which is the pain and stiffness that occurs 24 to 72 hours after intense exercise.
- Maintenance sports massage can help prevent overuse injuries, improve muscle balance and enhance overall health and well-being. It can also provide psychological benefits, such as relaxation and stress relief.
Who can benefit from sports massage?
Sports massage is not only for professional athletes or elite competitors. Anyone who engages in regular physical activity can benefit from sports massage, as it can help prevent injuries, improve performance and promote recovery.
Anybody suffering from muscle soreness or tension will find this treatment beneficial.
Who should not have sports massage?
Sports massage is not suitable for everyone. Some people who should avoid sports massage include those who have:
- Acute injuries or inflammation.
- Infectious skin diseases or open wounds.
- Fever or systemic illness.
- Blood clots or bleeding disorders.
- Cancer or history of cancer.
- Osteoporosis or fractures.
- Diabetes or other chronic conditions.
If you are in doubt speak to your doctor or our qualified sports massage therapist. Appointments by requestt, with our expert Stephanie Douglas (Dip.NLSSM, MSMA Level 4 ).
Good to know about sports massage
A sports massage session typically lasts from 30 to 90 minutes, depending on your needs and preferences.
Your sports massage therapist will ask you about your medical history, your goals, and your current condition. They will also assess your posture, movement patterns and muscle tone. They will carry out a thorough assessment and will diagnose your problem taking into account all contributing factors such as footwear, equipment and skill-specific technique.
Based on this information, they will design a customized treatment plan that suits your specific sport or activity.
During the session, the therapist will use various techniques to manipulate your soft tissues. They may also use oils, lotions, creams, or other products to facilitate the massage.
You may feel some discomfort or pain during the session, especially when the therapist works on tight or sore areas. However, you should not feel any sharp or unbearable pain. If you do, you should tell the therapist immediately so they can adjust the pressure or technique.
After the session
You may feel relaxed and refreshed. You may also notice some changes in your body, such as increased flexibility, reduced stiffness, improved circulation, and decreased swelling. However, you may also experience some side effects, such as soreness, bruising, fatigue, or headache. These are usually mild and temporary and should subside within a few days.
To get the most out of your sports massage session, you should follow some aftercare tips:
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and flush out toxins.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, nicotine and other stimulants that may interfere with your recovery.
- Apply ice or heat to any sore or swollen areas as directed by your therapist.
- Rest and avoid strenuous activities for at least 24 hours after the session.
- Stretch gently and regularly to maintain your flexibility.
- Follow any exercises or home care instructions given by your therapist
Sports massage is a valuable tool for anyone who wants to improve their physical performance and well-being. By incorporating sports massage into your routine, you can enjoy its many benefits and prevent or treat common sports-related injuries.
Suffering Aches and Pains?
If you are suffering from a physical health condition, sports injury or general pain and discomfort then we are here to help you.
Our goal is to treat your symptoms, reduce your pain, increase your range of motion, improve your flexibility and help you return to your optimal function. Our physiotherapists are able to treat a range of complaints, such as a bad backs, sore necks, muscle and joint pain, tennis elbow, sciatica, knee pain, hip problems, as well as many more conditions.
Sports Massage Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can benefit from sports massage?
Anyone who participates in sports or physical activities can benefit from sports massage, regardless of their skill level. It can be helpful for: Weekend warriors, Professional athletes, Individuals recovering from injuries and those who experience chronic pain or muscle tension.
What should I wear to a sports massage session?
Loose-fitting, comfortable clothing is best. You may be asked to undress to your underwear or wear shorts and a sports bra, depending on the areas being treated.
Will sports massage hurt?
Sports massage can be slightly uncomfortable, especially in areas where you have tight muscles or trigger points. However, the therapist will always communicate with you and adjust the pressure to your comfort level.
How often should I get a sports massage?
The frequency of your sessions will depend on your individual needs and activity level. Some people benefit from weekly sessions, while others may only need them once a month or before and after specific events.
Are there any risks associated with sports massage?
Sports massage is generally safe when performed by a qualified therapist. However, there are some contraindications, such as fever, acute injuries and certain medical conditions. It is important to disclose any health concerns to your therapist before your session.
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Physiotherapy treatments provided by Orchard Physio:
Here are some of the more popular physiotherapy services we offer:
Manual Therapy
Hands-on treatment to improve movement and function includes soft tissue release and massage, Joint mobilisation and manipulation, Taping and strapping, Mobilisations with movement (MWMs) and Myofascial release.
Acupuncture
Fine needles are inserted into specific points of the body for therapeutic or preventative purposes. Effective treatment used for relieving the pain, inflammation and muscle tension that arises with many injuries.
Core Muscle Ultrasound Scanning
A diagnostic imaging technique using ultrasound to visualize the core muscles of the abdomen and pelvis. It can be used to help your core training, post pregnancy diastasis recti rehabilitation and ease back pain.
Vestibular Rehab Therapy
An effective exercise-based programme designed to reduce vertigo, dizziness, visual disturbance, and/or imbalance and falls.
Electrotherapy
Electrotherapy treatment provided by therapeutic ultrasound used to reduce inflammation, increase blood flow, breakdown scar tissue and promote healing in conditions such as Achilles tendinopathy, tennis elbow and muscle tears.
Exercise Prescription
Home exercise programmes are extremely effective in assisting patients to recover. A tailored exercise programme will be structured for you by the Physiotherapist, based on their findings from your clinical assessment.
Postural Education and Ergonomics Advice
Due to the postures we adopt at work or in our leisure time activities, e.g. driving or sitting looking at monitors / screens, many of us suffer with aches and pains. We will identify the imbalance causing the pain and will address this through a variety of treatments.
Sports Massage
Sports massage is effectively used to treat all levels of athletes and all types of sports injuries. We have experience of working with elite athletes and dancers. Anybody suffering from muscle soreness or tension or joint pain will find this treatment beneficial. We will diagnose your problem taking into account factors such as footwear, equipment and skill-specific technique.
Clinical Pilates
Clinical Pilates developed by Physiotherapists with the emphasis on controlled movements, strengthening the core muscles of the trunk to support your spine.
Orchard Physio Clinic hold a variety of Clinical Pilates classes throughout the week. 1:1 Clinical Pilates is also available by appointment.
Suffering Aches and Pains?
If you are suffering from a physical health condition, sports injury or general pain and discomfort then we are here to help you.
Our goal is to treat your symptoms, reduce your pain, increase your range of motion, improve your flexibility and help you return to your optimal function. Our physiotherapists are able to treat a range of complaints, such as a bad backs, sore necks, muscle and joint pain, tennis elbow, sciatica, knee pain, hip problems, as well as many more conditions.