ABOUT SPORTS MASSAGE
What is Sports Massage?
Sports massage is a form of massage involving the manipulation of soft tissue, including skin, muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia, which surrounds the muscles. It utilizes specific techniques and stretches to help obtain maximum performance and physical conditioning with less chance of injury or pain. It can help to increase power, endurance and flexibility both before and after an event or workout.
Benefits of Sports Massage
- Improved circulation
- Reduction in muscle tension/soreness
- Increased range of motion/flexibility
- Increased sense of well-being
- Improved quality of sleep
- Reduction in physical and psychological stress
Do I have to play sport to benefit from Sports Massage?
Absolutely not! Even if you don't do any form of sport or exercise, everyday activities can still put stresses on your body, e.g. many office workers suffer from pain and stiffness in their neck, shoulders and lower back. Regular sports massage can help to ease the strain on these areas, reducing the risk of serious problems arising.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
There are certain conditions that prevent us from being able to perform a sports massage. Therefore, if you have any of the total contraindications below, we will be unable to book an appointment for you. Should you have any of the medical contraindications listed below, we will require approval from your GP prior to treatment. For any local contraindications, we can still provide treatment, however we will avoid the areas affected.
Total Contraindications (unable to treat)
- Acute conditions which require first aid or medical attention
- Infectious diseases
- Fever
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea
- Neuritis - inflammation of nerves
Medical Contraindications (treatment can be provided with GP approval)
- Any condition currently being treated by a medical practitioner
- Bell's palsy
- Cancer
- Cardiovascular conditions (thrombosis, phlebitis, hypertension, heart conditions)
- Diabetes
- Epilepsy
- Kidney infections
- Nervous/psychotic conditions
- Oedema
- Osteoporosis
- Recent operations
- Skin disease
- Slipped disc
- Trapped/pinched nerve
Local Contraindications (treatment can be provided but affected area avoided)
- Cuts/bruises
- Inflammation, including arthritis
- Pregnancy
- Sunburn
- Undiagnosed lumps or bumps
- Undiagnosed pain
- Varicose veins