 Sports massage is a deep form of soft tissue work that is applied in a sporting context. It consists of a variety of techniques that include effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, vibration, compression, deep strokes and friction. Some of the more advanced techniques range from soft tissue release, neutromascular techniques, myofascial release, muscle energy techniques, positional release, connective tissue manipulation and many more. The main focus sports massage is to help the athlete achieve peak performance and remain injury free as well as to support the healing of injuries.
Sports massage is not limited to athletes. It is appropriate for anyone who is in need of remedial or soft tissue work irrespective of age, level of fitness or gender. The remedial effects of sports massage cam be beneficial in the postsurgical setting; as an adjunct to physiotherapy, osteopathy or chiropractic in rehabilitative therapy; or as a health benefit within the office environment. Although the name might imply a sporting clientele, it is a therapy appropriate to all.
Within the sporting context, experts recommend that athletes use sports massage as a regular part of their training programs rather than having sporadic massage sessions. Because regular massage has cumulative benefits, it is more effective as a performance enhancement than occasional massage, which could disrupt performance. Athletes new to massage should not have their first sports massage sessions close to an upcoming event; they are better served by starting with regular sessions after an event. |
