Blog
WHAT DOES IT DO?
Sports massage and injuries.
BLOG
What should i expect during my massage?
Massage will always begin with lighter strokes (effleurage) to warm up and soften the tissues and help uncover any areas of tension.
With a deep tissue or sports massage we gradually work deeper using more pressure (petrissage, compressions, frictions) but will always communicate with you throughout and adjust intensity ensure that you’re comfortable.
After the treatment you may be given stretches or advice to help between massages. It is always advisable to ensure you drink plenty of water after a massage to rehydrate your muscles.
How does a deep tissue massage differ from a sports massage?
Deep tissue massage involves using a firm pressure more often over the full body or upper or lower limbs.
Sports massage tends to be focussed on specific areas of the body, working on older issues that have built up over time or been caused by postural/muscle imbalances, over training and poor biomechanics.
Not sure which to book? Don't stress, we can decide during the consultation which might be the most appropriate for you.
Is sports massage just for people who do sport?
Not at all. Sports massage techniques are suitable for both sports people and non athletes alike.
It can help with injures, chronic pain, muscle aches and range of movement in everyone.
We see a wide variety of clients with postural problems, issues related to jobs, pain from gardening, inactivity etc as well as athletes.
Is a sports massage painful?
Sports massage works on a pain scale level of 0-10. 0 being no pain and 10 being maximum pain.
During a sports massage your pain level should never be more than a 6 or 7 (tolerably uncomfortable) and this would usually only be on areas requiring remedial action and for a few seconds at a time.
You will always be in control and can ask to stop or reduce pressure at any point.
Your muscles may feel sore the day after the massage but this is perfectly normal and will pass within 24-48 hours.
What should i wear?
Loose fitting clothing and shorts. For females, a normal bra is ideal for working on your back and neck as this is something that can be undone easier than a sports bra.
To get the maximum benefit from a sports massage you may be asked to undress to underwear /shorts for an initial postural assessment. This is to understand what may be causing the dysfunction. However, if you are not comfortable we can work around this.
You will keep underwear on for the duration of the appointment and a towel provided for modesty.
How often should I come for a massage?
This will largely depend on your condition but is entirely up to you.
If you are undergoing rehab for an injury once a week for the first few weeks will speed up the recovery and healing process.
For other conditions clients vary between 2 to 6 weeks depending on the severity of their pain and physical needs. For maintenance, once a month is advised to remain at optimal health.
It is worth remembering massage not only helps prevent injury, pain and tension but also de-stresses the mind and relaxes the whole body.
WHERE TO FIND US
Active Health Care Clinic
388 Ecclesall Road
Sheffield
S11 8PJ
0114 267 1901
mchempsall@gmail.com
