What is Sports Therapy?

Sports Therapy is focused on the prevention of injury, treatment of injury and the rehabilitation of the injured patient back to high levels of functional, occupational and sports specific fitness, regardless of age or ability.
A Sports Therapist is part of the multi-disciplinary team to provide the best and complete care, treatment and rehabilitation to all sport and recreational participants.

Sports massage
Specifically geared to the needs of athletes and sporty types, this technique uses elements of Swedish massage as well as compression, pounding, trigger point work, friction and stretching. It may be performed before activity for a stimulating effect or after activity to help release muscle spasms and knotted tissue, remove toxins and increase flexibility.
Sports massage involves manipulation of muscles and other soft tissues to help ensure that they are healthy and working normally. Deep tissue therapy helps to break down knots and scar tissue. Massage also stimulates blood and lymphatic circulation. The combined effect is the removal of waste products from the body and a reduction in stress, fatigue and injury.

Swedish
Holistic treatment, which addresses the whole person’s psychological, physical and emotional well-being, involves the kneading and manipulation of soft tissue (muscles, tendons and ligaments). Most practitioners use some kind of oil, so you will need to undress. Deep-tissue massage is aimed at relieving chronic pain and involves a more intense application of strokes and a higher level of expertise than general Swedish massage. Deep-tissue massage may be done in a chair for a time-efficient session and may involve stretching, moist heat or cold packs. Benefits include improved circulation, relaxation and enhanced flexibility.

Postural correction and training “normal movement” is also vital in order that we don’t feel stiff in the first place.  People who have good posture and ideal movement usually don’t feel the need to have regular massage because things are comfortable anyway and ultimately prevention is better than cure.