WHO IS SPORTS MASSAGE THERAPY GOOD FOR?

M.I.A The Elite Relaxation Sports Massage Therapy is great for anyone who is having

• back pain

• neck or shoulder pain

• muscle spasm

• muscle weakness,

• whiplash

• nerve injuries

• carpal tunnel syndrome

• poor circulation

• tendinitis

• arthritis

• fibromyalgia

• constipation

• headaches and migraines

• sinus disorders and skin problems.

What is SPORTS MASSAGE?

Sports massage therapy is geared toward athletes of every kind, from world-class professionals to weekend joggers. The particulars of the sports massage technique are specific to the athlete's sport of choice. Focusing on areas of the body that are overused and stressed from repetitive and often aggressive movements and stretching. Aspects of sports massage therapy are gaining popularity as useful components in a balanced training regimen. Sports massage therapy can be used as a means to enhance pre-event preparation and reduce recovery time for maximum performance during training or after an event. Athletes have discovered that specially designed sports massage promotes flexibility, reduces fatigue, improves endurance, helps prevent injuries and prepares their body and mind for optimal performance. One of the key benefits of Sports massage therapy compared to other modalities is its ability to target muscle-tendon junctions. A 2010 study in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research found that even a 30-second massage improved hip-flexor range of motion. Another study conducted by Margaret Jones, Ph.D. of the American College of Sports Medicine, demonstrated a notable trend toward decreased muscle soreness in the athletes who received massage either before or after exercise. For anyone participating in regular physical activity, Sports massage therapy every week or two may be a great addition to your normal regimen. It's best to talk with one of our professional massage therapists to find a plan that will work best with your schedule, level of activity and budget.

WHO IS SPORTS MASSAGE THERAPY Not GOOD FOR?

M.I.A The Elite Relaxation Sports Massage Therapy is not a good option for anyone who has the following

• Open wounds - Any cuts, lacerations or grazes. Obvious really, but it has to be said. You should wait until the scar has properly formed. This is usually between one and two weeks.

• Muscle ruptures - In the acute stage these may still be bleeding. Massage will increase bleeding and tissue damage and prolong recovery. After the initial 48 to 72 hours massage may be possible but it will depend on the extent of the injury.

• Tendon ruptures - The above also applies to tendon injuries. Complete ruptures will need surgery, not massage.

• Muscle and tendon partial tears - Massage may be suitable after a minimum period of 48 hours, longer for more serious injuries.

• Contusions - These are impact injuries causing bleeding within the muscle. Massage to a contusion too soon after the injury may cause further damage and may lead to Myositis Ossificans (bone growth within the muscle).

• Burns, Chilblains and Broken bones - Massaging all of these will hurt and cause damage. Don't do it.

• Periostitis - This is inflammation of the sheath that surrounds the bone. Massage directly to the bone may cause irritation. You may be able to massage the surrounding muscles but stay well clear of the bone.

• Rheumatoid arthritis and gout - These are inflammatory conditions. The same rules apply here as to acute injuries. Massage may cause further inflammation.

• Bursitis - Inflammation to a bursa. A bursa is a small sack of fluid that helps tendons pass over bones at joints. If there is pain, swelling and redness over the skin then massage should be avoided.

• Myositis ossificans - A bad contusion or muscle rupture may begind to calcify (grow bone). Massage will make the damage worse.

• Infections of the skin and soft tissue - Bacterial infections, viral infections and fungal infections can be spread to other areas of the body by the therapist. Pain may also result from the infection, not an injury so massage will not help.

• Thrombosis - This is a rare but potentially lethal blood clot in a vein. It is common in the calf muscle area. A deep, sore pain in the belly of the muscle may be a thrombosis. If this is massaged, it may dislodge, travel up the veins and damage the heart.

• Artificial blood vessels - Artificial blood vessels which are implanted through surgery should be avoided.

• Bleeding disorders such as heamophillia - Massage may cause damage to tissues and result in bleeding.

• Tumours - If you are unsure of any lumps and bumps in the muscle or skin then leave well alone. Most often these lumps are muscle spasms or fatty tissue. An experienced therapist can usually tell.