Sports massage is a specific massage style that aims to reduce tension in the muscles and relieve stress on joints by releasing soft tissue tension through different techniques. For example: massage strokes and different stretching techniques to release pressure in the muscles.
The aim of a majority of clients is to reduce stiffness and increase range of movement in the muscles. The therapist does this by warming the tissues with long strokes increasing in pressure, mainly being directed towards the heart.
Sports massage does not only work for sporty people. Anyone who has aches and pains from gardening, desk work or driving can benefit from a sports massage.
A Sports massage is a deep tissue massage. Where you can feel your muscles are stiff and tired, before the massage, you may feel some discomfort during the massage but this should not last any longer than the pressure from the masseur itself. Specific areas on the body are more sensitive to pressure i.e. top of the shoulder (upper traps), base of hamstring (behind the knee), compared to others.
You can either book in for:
An hour appointment - which is about 40-45 minutes massage
Or
Half an hour - this is 20-25 minutes massage
The rest of the time is spent on medical and health consultation and changing. We only expose the area of the body we are treating as we go.
Everyone is different and therefore everyone reacts differently to sports massage. You may feel tired, have more range of movement in the area we have treated. However, this cannot be guaranteed and some clients may need more treatments if you have had the injury for a while.
The massage works on muscle fibres, reducing stiffness and increasing lymphatic drainage, i.e. reducing lactic acid build-up in the muscles, a toxin in the body. This can make some people feel a little queasy, others tired or others no effect at all. We always advise to drink plenty of water after a sports massage, and don't be surprised if you need the toilet more than normal - this is the best way the body can dispose of the toxins. Also if you feel tired, you probably are, so have a lie down if possible and take it easy for the rest of the day. A sports massage is a work out for your muscles, without you even doing anything!
Telephone the clinic on 01823 333973 and one of the receptionists will be able to book you in or answer any queries you may have.