Yorkshire Sport Medicine’s resident Sports Massage Therapist, Olivia Bolsher, is talking about what to expect and consider when booking a sports massage.
Sports massage is a form of manual therapy which includes a mixture of deep tissue massage, trigger point therapy and soft tissue release. This is different to your typical massage you may receive at a spa, as it is a deeper massage, applying more pressure. Sports massage is effective at decreasing tension within muscle tissue.
Here are my tips on what to expect and look for when considering a sports massage:
1. The sports massage therapist (SMT) qualification
Your SMT should hold a minimum of a Level 3 Sports Massage qualification, however, holding a qualification of Level 4 and above is desirable as your therapist will be equipped with a wider range of techniques and skills. At YSM our SMTs are trained regularly and work closely with our doctors and physiotherapists.
2. Your appointment from beginning to end
Your SMT should discuss why you have come in for a sports massage and what you want to achieve from the appointment. This may be general relief from aches and pains or tightness in specific areas. They will discuss the techniques that they will be using throughout the massage, and what you should expect.
Throughout your massage, your SMT should continue to make sure that you are okay and that the pressure of the massage is suitable.
Your SMT should uphold your privacy and dignity by leaving the room whilst you are removing any necessary clothing and providing a towel to cover up any areas necessary.
3. The massage process
An SMT uses several techniques throughout a sports massage. To warm up the muscles, the SMT will use techniques known as effleurage and petrissage. These start superficial (light) and gradually the pressure will become firmer as the muscles warm up. Other techniques that the SMT may use include soft tissue release (STR), connective tissue lock (CTM), frictions and trigger point therapy.
YSM Clinic at David Lloyd Hull Road, York, YO10 3LG
Call 01904 413669 or email
info@yorkshiresportsmedicine.co.uk.
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