A sports massage includes the application of a range of deep manipulative massage strokes. As a qualified sports massage therapist I can apply sports massage techniques using thumbs, hands and elbows to attain moderate to deep pressure. Sports massage techniques can be used to target common sports injuries such as muscular strains and tightness. However, sports massage isn’t just for sportsmen and women. Sports massage can also benefit an individual suffering from tight muscles due to occupational stress and demands. The application of a sports massage can be beneficial in a number of circumstances such as;

Pre-event
Post-event
During a training programme
Muscular tightness
Acute pain
Hacking to thigh muscle

Pre-event massage includes the application of vigorous and rhythmic massage strokes which can excite muscle fibres and prepare them for physical activity. Pre-event massage can improve tissue flexibility, maximise performance and reduce the risk of injury. Pre-event massage can also allow time for mental preparation prior to activity allowing individuals to “get in the zone”.
Post-event massage includes the application of slow massage strokes used to relax muscles following activity and assist in the removal of waste products and recovery. The cellular effects following sports massage include an increase in blood circulation which can assist in the removal of metabolic waste products from the working muscles. Our Sports Therapists use post-event massage to reduce pain, prevent delayed onset of muscle soreness (DOMS) and relieve muscular tightness.

I have extensive experience in providing regular massage treatment to athletes during their progressive training programme. Maintenance massage can be used to reduce the risk of injury and maintain healthy muscles. The application of massage can reduce muscular tension, maintain flexibility and assist in cellular exchange. Cellular exchange refers to the removal of waste products and the deliverance of nutrients to working muscles. An increase in nutrient availability such as oxygen, calcium and iron can improve the health of tissues, tissue repair and can maximise performance.

Massage treatment can be beneficial when applied to tight muscles. Muscular tightness can occur for a number of reasons such as physical activity, injury, overuse, occupational demands or psychological stress. If left untreated, muscular tightness can cause chronic pain, limited range of movement and reduced performance. The mechanical effects of a sports massage include an increase in the breakdown / realignment of collagen fibres. The application of deep pressure can break up adhesive cross-fibre connections within muscular knots and scar tissue and can allow collagen fibres to realign into a parallel and functional fashion.

I will use also use massage treatment to reduce acute pain. Acute pain can occur for a number of reasons such as injury, inflammation or overuse. Massage treatment can reduce the feeling of pain through the pain gate theory. The pain gate theory states a non-harmful stimulus e.g. massage, can prevent the transmission of a harmful stimulus e.g. injury. The pain gate theory can explain how rubbing your toe after you bump it can make you feel better instantly.

Overall benefits;

Maximised performance
Increased flexibility
Prevention of delayed onset of muscle soreness
Relieved tight muscles
Decreased tension
Relieved muscle spasm
Reduced risk of injury


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