Sports Massage

Sports Massage

A treatment for athletes to enhance recovery and improve performance

Sports massage therapists near you

How can sports massage nourish you? 

Sports massage is a branch of massage therapy that is designed specifically for athletes[1]. Unlike other types of massage, Sports massage is not intended for relaxation. Instead, strenuous techniques are used to stretch tight muscles and reduce the stress and tension that builds up in the tissue during exercise.

Sports massage is suitable for assisting with minor sporting injuries, to treat muscle soreness, increase flexibility and prevent injury. These may be performed pre, during or post exercise, and are tailored for specific sporting disciplines, injuries or conditions[2]

The history of sports massage dates back to the times of ancient Greeks and Romans[3], who believed in the benefit of massage therapy for exercise. Roman physician, Galen (AD 30 – 200)[4], was known to prescribe massage for gladiators both before and after exercise. Today, sports massage is a popular choice for sporting professionals, and is widely used by athletes in elite sporting competitions around the world[5]

In Australia, sports massage may be provided by sports physiotherapists[6], sports osteopaths[7] or by sports massage therapists who have completed courses in sports massage. 

It is important to choose a therapist who is registered with a professional association to ensure the highest standard of treatment. These include Massage & Myotherapy Australia[8], Massage Association of Australia[9] and the Association of Massage Therapists[10]. Sports physiotherapists may also be registered with the Physiotherapy Board of Australia[11], which is regulated by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). Members who are registered with these peak bodies are required to undertake continuous professional development and commit to upholding excellence in practice. 

Benefits of sports massage

The overarching purpose of this therapy is to prevent and treat sports-related conditions. As such, sports massage may be of benefit to both amateur and elite athletes alike. 

In a systematic review evaluating the effects of massage after strenuous exercise, it was reported that massage therapy may be effective for improving the delayed onset of muscle soreness (DOMS) and muscle performance[12]. This is further supported by a large meta-analysis that confirms the beneficial effects of massage in improving DOMS as well as flexibility[13].

There is also evidence to suggest that massage therapy may be beneficial for recovery after exercise, rehabilitation following injury, and preparing athletes for performance. 

Additional studies have reported that massage therapy may improve shoulder range of motion[14], as well as reduce muscle pain in the quadriceps of runners[15]

Sports massage may assist in alleviating symptoms that relate to: 

Inflammation and swelling Mobility and movement Muscle spasm, tightness and cramps Muscle strain and injury Neck pain Pain relief Sports injuries Sports performance Sprains, strains and ligament injuries

What to expect from a sports massage session

A collection of different massage techniques may be used by a sports massage therapist. These may include techniques such as effleurage (sliding, circular movements), petrissage (kneading and pressure techniques), tapotement (repetitive striking movements), friction (stroking in circular or linear motions) and vibration (shaking). 

The specific combination of techniques used will provide different results. As such, your massage therapy session will provide you with individualised benefits[16] that are dependent on your athletic needs. Your session will therefore differ depending on whether you are seeking a pre or post exercise treatment. 

If you require a pre-exercise sports massage, your therapist may use techniques that activate the muscles and prepare your body for the upcoming activity. A pre-exercise massage will typically be done 30 minutes to two hours before the event.

In contrast, if you require treatment post exercise, your therapist may use techniques that increase blood flow, decrease inflammation and aid in muscle recovery. 

Keep in mind that it is always advisable to consult a qualified health professional before commencing any wellness journey. If you have an injury or an underlying health issue, speak to your sports massage therapist, who will be happy to address these concerns and personalise the therapy session to your individual requirements. 

References

  1. Sports massage | healthdirect.gov.au
  2. Sports Massage | massagemyotherapy.com.au
  3. Sports Massage | encyclopedia.com
  4. Sports Massage Not Just for Athletes | healthycellsmagazine.com
  5. Olympic Athletes Clear the Trail for Sports Massage | massagemag.com
  6. Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy | australiansportsphysio.com.au
  7. Sports Osteopath | middleparkosteopathicclinic.com.au
  8. Home | massagemyotherapy.com.au
  9. Home | maa.org.au
  10. Who we are? | amt.org.au
  11. Physiotherapy Board Ahpra | physiotherapyboard.gov.au
  12. Massage Alleviates Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness after Strenuous Exercise: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis | Frontiers in Physiology
  13. Effect of sports massage on performance and recovery: a systematic review and meta-analysis | PMC
  14. Massage's Effect on Injury, Recovery, and Performance: A Review of Techniques and Treatment Parameters | Strength and Conditioning Journal
  15. Effectiveness of massage therapy on the range of motion of the shoulder: a systematic review and meta-analysis | PMC
  16. The Massage Therapists Guide to Sports Massage | massagemag.com

Frequently asked questions

Sports Therapy is a specialized branch of physical therapy that focuses on the prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of sports-related injuries. It differs from general physical therapy by addressing issues specific to athletes and individuals engaged in physical activities.

Sports Therapy is designed to address a wide range of conditions, including musculoskeletal injuries, ligament sprains, muscle strains, joint problems, and issues related to overuse or improper training techniques.

Sports Therapists assess the specific needs and goals of each individual, considering their sport or activity. Treatment plans often include a combination of therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, injury prevention strategies, and sport-specific rehabilitation.

Sports Therapy is suitable for both professional and recreational athletes. It caters to individuals participating in various physical activities, helping prevent injuries, enhance performance, and support recovery.

Yes, Sports Therapy is not only about injury treatment but also focuses on optimizing athletic performance. Therapists work on improving flexibility, strength, and addressing biomechanical issues to enhance an athlete's overall performance.

Sports Therapists design rehabilitation programs to facilitate a safe and efficient recovery from sports injuries. This often includes targeted exercises, manual therapy, and progressive training to restore function and prevent re-injury.

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