Sports massage was originally developed to help athletes prepare their bodies for optimal performance, recover after a big event, or function well during training. Sports massage emphasizes prevention and healing of injuries to the muscles and tendons.
But you don’t have to be an Olympian to benefit from sports massage. Sports massage is also good for anybody with injuries, chronic pain, or restricted range of motion. The massage therapist generally concentrates on a specific problem area. For instance, sore neck and shoulders, tight hamstrings, sore calf muscles, or pain in the lower back.
When should I get a sports massage?
A sports massage is a good choice if you have a specific problem - a tender knee from running, for instance.
The therapist generally focuses on the problem area - perhaps you have a frozen shoulder or pulled hamstring - rather than giving you a full-body massage.
Massage therapy can be effective for an athlete of any age. It can be a lifesaver for the athlete in training at age 40 or older. The muscles and tendons that are less flexible in older athletes can be made more pliable by a good massage practitioner. Regular massages can help prevent injury and aid recovery from workouts and injuries.
Sports massage can alleviate muscle strains and spasms and help flush toxins, primarily lactic acid, from your system. A massage can target a certain area or cover the whole body according to the client’s needs. A good massage practitioner gets to know each client’s body and can focus efforts where they are needed most.
At Ache Busters, Athlone, John Picard - a former international orienteering champion, and former Defence Forces karate champion turned sports massage therapist is available to talk to anyone who thinks a sports massage could help them.
For more information or to make an appointment call John on (086 ) 8255206.
