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Sports Massage therapy, although sometimes overlooked in
training programs, is the key to getting an edge over your competitors. Or to
shaving those extra few seconds off your race times. It can also prevent
injuries, calm the nervous system and release waste products that build up
after athletic activity, to name just a few of the benefits.
Scientifically speaking, we know now that heavy workouts and
endless weigh training can only take an athlete so far. We've learned from
studies and experience that allowing recovery time for the body to repair
itself can be just as important as intense training. Sport massages can double
the benefit of recovery periods because they actually improve muscle
regeneration by kick starting your body's natural healing processes. If you've
been prone to sports related strains and injuries than allowing time for this
process is vital.
What's the difference between traditional relaxation massages
and Sports Massage Therapy?
To put it simply, sports massage is specifically targeted to
match each individual's body composition, activities, age, fitness level and
personal training goals. Have you ever left a massage treatment feeling
relaxed, but wishing that your bad shoulder or stiff lower back were feeling
better? Sports massage therapy differs from total body massage, in that the
entire treatment session can focus on one part of the body. A skilled therapist
can spend an entire session focusing on shoulder massage or back massage to
make sure you get the results you need and that you'll never leave
disappointed.
A variety of techniques can be used as part of Sports massage
therapy. Trigger point therapy, may be used to put pressure on painful
"knots" in muscles or connective tissue. Releasing these points can
reduce pain and stiffness in the muscle and prevent the body from
overcompensating with other muscle groups. This treatment can be done on an
ongoing basis, but it is especially useful before an event if there are trouble
areas that need to be treated quickly.
Contraindications
Application of pressure is contraindicated directly over
sites of acute, active and ongoing infection and inflammation. Recent unhealed
fractures, acute gout, phlebitis, and unhealed wounds contraindicate massage. |