subject: Sports Massage Ease Pain More Effectively [print this page] Sports Massage Ease Pain More Effectively
I'm not a professional athlete, nor do I have any sport-related injuries. Do I need a sports massage? You might be surprised, I've tried it, maybe you should too. Do you have a specific injury? A massage may be for you. The area of pain will be the focus, rather than the body in general. For men, it may be easier for them to go for a sports massage, as they may feel it a more masculine term than merely a massage. It can treat a frozen shoulder, pulled hamstring, tender knee.
When receiving a massage, the superficial layers of muscle and connective tissue are manipulated to enhance function and promote relaxation and well-being. It can also go deeper with deep tissue massage. The art of massage became popular in the US in the 1800's. It had a surge of popularity until the 1930's and 40's. When modern medicine came to the forefront, the art of massage therapy became discounted as "lesser than". Suddenly, it became popular again in the 1960's and 1970's when nurses began to use it to relieve pain in patients. It again gained credibility when, in the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta it was deemed a core medical service. An athlete can prepare for his/her next game by receiving a sports massage. It is standard procedure for many athletes.
If you are looking to modern medicine to cure your issues, maybe you are looking in the wrong place. The art of massage dates way back, back to over 3000 years. It has been documented by the ancient Hindus, Persians and Egyptians. They all applied forms of massage for many ailments. Hippocrates even wrote papers recommending the use of rubbing and friction for joint and circulatory problems.
Massage therapists, the world over, are helping people, not only every-day people, but athletes too! A sports massage can be done before a game or after a game. It can be done during training to help the athlete perform better, train longer and have fewer injuries. They can also be done to repair injuries that may have occurred during an athletic event.
With any massage, special equipment is used for sports massage. As these therapists are self-employed, and jobs in this field are increasing.
Usually this consists table with a horseshoe shaped head support for ease of breathing while lying face-down. It has a padded surface which is easy to keep clean and remain hygienic. Mats and orthopedic pillows are also used for additional support.
So, what is your sport? What is your injury? For me, it's my back! I can't bend over, stand up, move! And I'm not even an athlete, just a mother. However, I carry laundry upstairs, children back to their beds, school books back and forth. In the United States and the world over, you don't need to be a professional athlete to have a sports massage.
I just live everyday life, but a sports massage works well for me. Just head on down to the local spa and see what they offer. Check out different types of massage, see where their specialties are.
