Sports massage is a specific type of massage that can be used by athletes or those that exercise frequently and intensively, to alleviate muscle pain and improve athletic performance. Many professional athletes utilize the help of massage therapists in recovering from sports related injury or pain. It is common for sports teams to employ massage therapists to help with their team. Here is an overview of how athletes or those that actively work out can benefit from massage.
What are benefits of sports massage?
- Reduce muscle tension
- Promote relaxation
- Increase range of motion
- Increased blood flow and circulation
- Reduce swelling
- Decrease muscle soreness
- Break down of scar tissue
- Enhance athletic performance
- Maintains fitness levels
- Alleviates pain caused by physical activity
- Helps with injury prevention and recovery
How can it help with muscle soreness?
Muscle soreness is common after exercise. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, soreness usually occurs 12 to 24 hours after the exercise. Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness can produce greater pain 24-72 hours after exercise. If athletes or those who exercise get regular therapeutic massage treatments then the muscle soreness can be prevented by increasing blood flow to the area.
What are other reasons to get sports massages?
Massage therapy can help manage and improve stress. Endorphins are released during massages which can not only act as a natural pain reliever, but improve a person’s mood and anxiety levels. Sports massages are beneficial for preventing injury, restoring muscle tissue, and improving pain and soreness. Athletes can boost their performance and their physical and emotional health with regular massage.
As we approach Spring and Summer, many people will be getting back into a consistent work out routine. If you are one of those people, give us a call to schedule your next massage. We would love to be apart of your 2019 workout routine.
Source: American Massage Therapy Association
