First Sports Massage? What to Expect

If you have never had a sports massage before, you may be wondering what to expect. Treatment will be tailored to each individual but here is a general guide on what you can expect from your appointment.

Before beginning treatment, you will be asked to fill out a consultation form to ensure that there are no medical conditions or medication which would be adversely affected by massage - known as contraindications.

Sports massage is focused on specific problem areas and treatment will start with a physical assessment to observe posture and determine the flexibility and range of movement of muscles and joints through both active and passive movements.

You will be asked to undress the area to be worked on but you will be covered with a towel as much as possible at all times, only exposing the specific area being massaged. It is important that you feel relaxed and comfortable during treatment.

The massage begins with some gentle warm up techniques to relax you and prepare the muscles for the deeper, more targeted massage. Sports massage can feel uncomfortable but I will work within your individual pain threshold and most people identify it as a "good pain." Tight, sore areas known as trigger points can be released with gentle pressure which can feel uncomfortable but eases as the tissue relaxes.

Sports massage involves myofascial release techniques which stretches and releases the connective tissue which surrounds muscles, bones and tendons throughout the body. This fascia connects all body parts so a pain in your lower back could actually be caused by tightness in your hips or legs.

Following your massage, you may be a sore for 24-48 hours afterwards as your body works to eliminate the waste products removed from the soft tissue. Drinking plenty of water will aid this process and after a couple of days you should feel comfortable, rejuvenated and refreshed... with a much better range of movement and less muscle aches!