This is a form of massage that isn't just for athletes, it's a firm approach combined with a logical method that uses a wide range of techniques, such as trigger points, frictions, compressions and myofascial release. This form of soft tissue work will help mould and stretch muscle tissue, using slow deep strokes that will allow tight muscles to relax.
Deep tissue massage and sports massage work at a deeper level than Swedish massage. This means I am able to also work on deeper layers of muscle. With deep tissue massage / sports massage I also use techiniques that treat the layers of connective tissue (fascia) that runs all through the body, both just under the skin and also wrapping around all your muscles. Working in this way using forearms, knuckles, fists and elbows, and also special massage tools means that I can help with things such as the break down of scar tissue from old injuries (where possible), speed up the healing time of current injuries, increase mobility and range of motion, and just accessing those deep layers of muscle which won't be reached in a traditional Swedish massage.
Deep tissue massage / Sports massage will also encourage better blood circulation and lymphatic flow, which is going to allow better general muscular function. So it is great for a whole range of needs from preparing for a sporting event to recovering from injury to general tension and relaxation, but as with any treatment method, one deep tissue massage alone may not fix your concern, especially if it is a long standing problem, so a short course of regular deep tissue massage may be the best course of action to help you, feel free to get in touch if you have any questions or would like to discuss this further. Also, I cover all areas of Cardiff and the Vale, so I bring the sports massage treatment to you.
As with all treatments I can offer a mobile massage service, traveling to all areas of Cardiff and the Vale to carry out your sports massage / deep tissue massage, or I can carry out your treatment in a conveiently located clinic in central Cardiff.
Sports massage covers a range of techniques ranging from hands on flowing massage using hands, forearms, knuckles and elbows, to more focused techniques such as trigger points, stretching, myofascial release, and more. The techniques used will vary depending on your reason for treatment, and what type of soft tissue work your muscles best respond to.
Sports massage doesn't always equal pain, but if you have chronic tightness in an area or scar tissue is being worked on some techniques can feel uncomfortable. However inflicting pain on our clients is not what sports massage is all about, and I will always listen to your feedback, so if a massage technique is too painful I will always change tack and try something else.
When performing a sports massage treatment I tend to use oil so you will be undressed down to your underwear, but you will always be covered with sheets and a blanket and I only uncover the part of the body I am working on at any one time.
Some sports massage techniques can also performed through clothes so if time is of the essence or you would rather have me not use oil then this is another option.
Sports massage isn't magical unfortunately so more than one treatment may be needed especially if your problem is chronic or particularly tight. But we will go through this in your consultation and look at a viable treatment plan for you.
After your sports massage is is always important to drink plenty of water to flush out any waste products which may have been pushed out of your muscles during treatment.
A good stretch after your sports massage is also going to be helpful as your muscles will be feeling more flexible, add to this. And stretching should become a regular part of daily life, I can advise you on this if you aren't sure what to do.
Foam rollers, trigger point balls and heat packs can all be useful home treatments for you to have at your disposal. If you look after yourself between treatments the benefits of your sports massage will last longer and your symptoms will improve quicker!
Sports massage is just a term for the style of treatment and the type of techniques used. These will be just as useful whether you are a top level athlete or you sit at a desk all day. If you have tight muscles sports massage can help.
If you feel that sports massage is for you, or your main aim is just to relax then I am trained in many other types of massage ranging from Swedish massage to hot stone therapy. I have a massage to suit everyone.
The contraindications (reasons why you can't have a massage) for sports massage are much the same as for any other kind of massage, recent operations, fever and infection (massage stimulates lymphatic flow so can spread infection which is carried in the lymph), recent stroke, haemorrhage, aneurism, unstable high blood pressure or unstable blood sugar. I am always on hand to talk to if you have any questions about your suitability for sports massage or any other massage
My aim is to provide you with the treatment that is right for you and gives you the results you need. Therefore when it comes to booking it is essential that I speak to you to personally. All email enquiries will be answered and followed with a phonecall so we can talk about your requiremnets and discuss a booking that suits you.
