What’s the difference between sports physiotherapy and sports massage?
In a Sports Physiotherapy assessment, we focus on a specific area, conducting a thorough evaluation through a combination of questioning and physical testing. In contrast, during a Sports Massage assessment, we determine the appropriate pressure and massage techniques to aid your recovery from stress and physical exertion. Everyone needs to recharge from time to time, and a sports massage is a perfect way to help your body unwind. When you regularly engage in intense physical exercise, your body occasionally needs some time to relax!
Who is sports massage for?
Sports massage is suitable for everyone and can be an effective tool in aiding recovery between exercise sessions. Whether you’re training full-time or juggling workouts alongside a job, you may experience pain, stiffness, and tightness in muscles and joints. Our expert Sports Physiotherapists, with over 20 years of experience in high-performance sports, can identify the cause of your discomfort and tightness. They will help you recover using the correct combination of deep tissue techniques to relax muscle tension, ease pain, and maximise movement.
What happens during the initial session?
In an initial assessment, we will discuss the training or discomfort you’re experiencing, as well as any relevant health issues to ensure there are no contraindications to treatment, such as brittle bones or easily injured skin. The session can focus on a specific part of your body or cover a broader range of areas, depending on your needs. The pressure applied will vary based on your discomfort, requests, or reactions during the sports massage. Sports massages tend to be deeper and involve more pressure than a typical spa massage, so be sure to communicate with your clinician if you want them to adjust the pressure or avoid a particularly tender spot.
Do I have to take my clothes off for the sports massage?
You may find it beneficial to expose the area of skin being treated to allow for the effective use of massage oils, but this is not compulsory. If you feel more comfortable remaining fully clothed or covered, we have techniques to ensure you get the most out of your session.
How often should I receive a sports massage?
Some clients choose to receive sports massages regularly, such as weekly or bi-weekly, to stay on top of aches and pains. Others prefer to book a session after particularly challenging workouts or events like 10Ks and marathons. There is no wrong time to book—you will always notice a benefit from a session. Your therapist may recommend a follow-up session, or you can contact our admin team to schedule one at your convenience.
