The many benefits of sports massage are widely acknowledged. For athletes and anyone who wants to keep their muscles active, sports massage can help with increased blood flow to muscles and improved lymph node function, helping to make everyday mobility safe and comfortable while maintaining or even improving range of motion. Sports massage can also help prevent injuries, improve performance, and expedite recovery for athletes.
Sports massage is different to other types of massage such as deep tissue and swedish massage. We explore this more in last month’s blog article, Sports Massage Vs Deep Tissue Massage.
One of the characteristics of this massage style is it can involve vigorous techniques to focus on the specific muscle groups used in sporting activities. Let’s explore some sports massage techniques, and their unique benefits.
Effleurage
“Effleurage” is a French word meaning ‘to skim’ or ‘to touch lightly on’, and is a relaxing technique usually used at the beginning and end of a sports massage. This massage technique involves long, sweeping strokes using a flat hand or fingers to warm up the muscles and improve blood circulation. In Effleurage, the stroke is always towards the heart, to encourage venous return – the flow of blood to the right side of the heart. Effleurage is administered in a smooth, rhythmical and calm manner, beginning with lighter touch, encouraging you to relax while allowing your massage therapist to check for any tissue abnormalities or anything requiring extra attention.
The goal of Effleurage is to help you feel relaxed and at ease and prepare you for other techniques using a firmer touch. When the muscles and tissues are relaxed, the benefits of deeper tissue massage are better achieved. Effleurage stretches, relaxes and warms up the muscles, stimulates the peripheral nerves and increases blood and lymph flow. Effleurage also allows your massage therapist to palpate and assess the condition of the muscles and tissue in preparation for the rest of the massage.
Petrissage
“Petrissage is also a French word, meaning “to knead”. This massage technique utilises kneading and squeezing motions to relieve muscle tension and improve flexibility. The alternating stimulation and relaxation of the tissues and muscles can also relieve pain.
One similarity between Effleurage and Petrissage is that both techniques direct pressure in their movements towards the heart to encourage venous return. However, Petrissage targets deeper layers of muscle tissue through firmer pressure and more complex movements than Effleurage.
Tapotement
The word “Tapotement” derives from the French word “Tapoter” which means “to drum or tap”. The Tapotement technique employs rhythmic tapping, pounding, or percussion movements to invigorate muscles. It enhances circulation, relieves muscle soreness, and stimulates the
nervous system. Tapotement is a good technique to help athlete’s muscles warm up before an event or competition.
Trigger Point Therapy
Trigger point therapy is a soft tissue technique which focuses on specific points of muscle tension, known as trigger points. Applying pressure to these points can help to release knots and alleviate pain. There are some different techniques as part of trigger point therapy which include deep tissue massage and dry needling. Your therapist will be able to advise the most suitable approach for you.
Massage therapy at Liberty Health and Happiness
Massage therapy is a great way to relax, relieve aches and pains, help injury recovery and improve athletic performance. A quality sports massage will utilise several different techniques depending on your unique physiology. Whether you are a serious athlete, recovering from an injury or just wanting to push yourself a little harder at the gym, at Liberty Health and Happiness our team of qualified, experienced massage therapists are able to tailor your massage to meet your specific needs and goals. Read more about our sports massage remedial therapy here or book now to discuss ways that sports massage can support your body to be the best you can be.
Disclaimer:
All information is general and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Liberty Health and Happiness can consult with you to confirm if this treatment is right for you.
References:
Massage. Accessed Wednesday 14th August 2024 from https://www.physio-pedia.com/Massage
What is Trigger Point Therapy? Accessed Wednesday 14th August 2024 from https://www.muscletherapyaustralia.com.au/single-post-c18co/what-is-trigger-point-therapy#:~:text=Trigger%20point%20therapy%20is%20a,dry%20needling%20and%20ischemic%20pressure.
Venous Return. Accessed Wednesday 14th August 2024 from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK5447
