Sports massage is a type of therapy that many athletes don’t know to take advantage of. It is unique not necessarily in its technique, but rather in its intention. Sports massage in Denver combines a variety of modalities to target the specific physical and biomechanical needs of athletes. Should you be taking advantage of sports massage therapy?
What to Expect from Sports Massage in Denver
What Makes Sports Massage Different?
The techniques used to perform a sports massage are not technically different than those used to perform myofascial massage, deep tissue massage, or another type of massage that you may be more familiar with. Where the intent of, say, a deep tissue massage is to reduce muscle tension and relieve related pain, the intent of using the deep tissue technique in a sports massage is to relieve tension while increasing range of motion and improving soft tissue function.
Sports Massage In Denver Can Be Separated Into Four Categories
Sports massage in Denver can be divided based on the specific goal an athlete wishes to achieve through the massage. We can look at these goals through one of four lenses: pre-event massage, post-event massage, restorative therapy, or rehabilitative therapy. Let’s talk about each of these types of sports massage.
Pre-Event
An athlete experienced in massage therapy can benefit from sports massage in a seven to two day window prior to a major event. Sports massage can be utilized in preparation for an event because the targeted techniques can improve soft tissue function, restore range of motion, reduce soreness or tightness related to training, and lessen fatigue and tension. All of these factors can decrease your performance, so a sports massage can help you reach your peak abilities prior to a big event.
Post-Event
For athletes that have just a few major events that they train long durations for, post-event sports massage can be exponentially beneficial in reducing the recovery time. Experienced athletes can take advantage of a post-event sports massage anywhere from a few hours to 48 hours after an event, while less experienced athletes may find them too sore immediately after an event to benefit from a massage. If that describes your post-event experience, you may want to wait up to three or four days after an event so that your body doesn’t resist the therapeutic treatment.
Restorative
Restorative sports massage in Denver can be used simultaneously with other training and recovery efforts. Athletes who train on a daily basis can take advantage of restorative massage efforts because it supports the body throughout the entire process of breaking down and building up muscle tissue that occurs in regular, ongoing training. Scheduling restorative sports massage even as infrequently as once per month can have benefits on an athlete’s performance.
Rehabilitative
While a massage therapist cannot diagnose an injury you may be suffering from due to your sports training, they can offer treatment to stimulate healing and recovery. If you have a severe or chronic injury, talk with your MD about adding sports massage to your recovery regimen. A therapist can give your body the tools it needs to heal in a safe and productive environment.
Prepare For Sports Massage In Denver
If you are considering scheduling a sports massage, there are a few things you’ll want to do to make sure you are prepared.
Drink plenty of water. If you’ve never gotten a massage before, you may experience some soreness following your treatment due to the release of toxins from overworked muscles. Staying hydrated before and after your massage will help flush out these toxins and get your body back to peak performance.
Don’t expect a traditional, relaxing experience. Sports massage can be more accurately compared to a physical therapy appointment than to a trip to the spa. You can anticipate that your massage therapist will send you home with some “homework” to continue to work they began during your sports massage.
Be ready to talk to your therapist. Your sports massage will be most beneficial if you communicate with your massage therapist. One characteristic of sports massage is the highly focused treatment. You won’t get a full body massage, but rather, highly specific treatment on areas of your body that will enhance your sports performance.
Whether you’re an athlete following a rigorous training regimen or you’re preparing for a good-natured race with your friends or family, a sports massage can help you increase your performance while decreasing your risk of injury. To schedule your sports massage in Denver, contact Wayfare Wellness today.