subject: Sports Massage And Deep Tissue Massage: How Do They Differ? [print this page] A sports massage and a deep tissue massage are both considered high intensity treatments. Compared to other treatments such as the Swedish massage, these two massage techniques use longer strokes and deeper pressure to get to the deeper muscle tissues.
Massage spas in Largo have emphasized that there are important differences between these two techniques. A sports massage is designed to enhance muscle performance while a deep tissue massage is meant to heal strained or damaged tissue muscles.
According to a Largo massage therapist, a sports massage is ideal for athletes and physically active individuals. You can get a sports massage before and after a work-out, or before heading out to a game. Professional athletes and sports teams avail of the help of massage therapists during their training and competitions to heighten performance, as well as to hasten recovery. A preparatory massage is the first part of a sports massage, according to a Belleair therapist. Undergoing regular preparatory massage decreases the chances of muscle strain and injury because it helps identify dysfunctions in the tissues, tendons, or fascia.
A sports massage before training or a game usually lasts for 10 to 15 minutes but can be shortened depending on how much time is available. The strokes used for a pre-competition massage are fast-paced to stimulate blood flow, flush the muscular system, and reduce resistance. A massage spa in Largo says that preparatory massage strokes would also depend on the kind of physical activity involved. For strength-based activities, the therapist will concentrate only on the specific muscles to be used. For endurance-based activities, focus will be on overall energy and muscle flexibility. This would involve stretching or PNF (if the person has already undergone the technique). The pressure is also applied in an increasing mode, starting with shallow small strokes to longer and deeper ones.
During-competition sports massage follows the same technique as the preparatory massage. But one note a Largo therapist emphasized is to never ask the athlete where they hurt. The therapist just has to follow the standard preparatory massage strokes. Post-competition massage, on the other hand, lasts only for 5 to 10 minutes in which the focus are the used muscles. Resistance stretching must be avoided during this part of the massage. Gentle compressions and light friction strokes are used in this part of the sports massage. Effleurage and petrissage strokes are the standard techniques for post competition massage.
A deep tissue massage, according to an Indian Rocks Beach spa, is used for treating chronic muscle pain and knotted or blocked muscles. A deep tissue massage can also help flush away toxins that clog the muscles to alleviate pain and tightness. Largo spas recommend this treatment for people experiencing constant muscle pain that result to stiff necks, tightness of the lower back, and sore shoulders. Injured patients can also undergo this treatment specifically for ailments involving the joints, connective tissues, and even carpal tunnel syndrome. However, one should note that having a deep tissue massage will cause a little discomfort and pain during and after the procedure, but it is all part of the massage. Also, you should tell the therapist if the pain is already unbearable so they can adjust the amount of applied pressure. Soreness from a deep tissue massage should subside after a day or two. Friction, effleurage and petrissage are the standard strokes in a deep tissue massage.
Now that you know their difference, you are now ready to set that appointment with your nearest massage spa in Largo (33771), Belleair, and Indain Rocks Beach area!
