Out for an injury and impatient to get back in the game? Find out how a massage can help facilitate recovery in injured athletes.
Many athletes will encounter some form of injury during their lifetime. As Massage Therapy continues to be at the forefront of research, it is clear that athletes can benefit immensely from this all-natural technique for healing and wellness. According to the recognized research massage acts to improve performance, reduce pain, prevent injury, encourage focus and shorten recovery time.
Essentially, Massage Therapy involves two types of responses: a mechanical response as a result of the pressure and movement and a reflex response where the nerves respond to the stimulation of a massage.
Increase Flexibility Through Massage Therapy.
To ensure you are at your optimal performance level, staying flexible is key to preventing sports related injuries. Regardless of the sport or activity, adding Massage Therapy can greatly increase flexibility and assist with increased performance.
Improve Circulation with Massage Therapy.
Massage Therapy also helps to improve circulation by stimulating the cells and soft tissue. With better circulation, energy-giving nutrients and oxygen are flushed to the cells. This allows athletes to move and breathe more easily, leading to enhanced performance levels. Many professional and collegiate athletic programs employ or contract with massage therapists.
Decrease Muscle Pain with Massage Therapy.
Even if you are not a professional athlete, the chances of encountering sore muscles while playing sports is high. If you find yourself in pain from sore muscles, chances are you will not be able to operate at your peak performance level. Adding regular Massage Therapy to your healthcare routine can greatly increase your ability to perform, as well as an aid in a more speedy recovery. Massage Therapy also promotes healthy sleep patterns, allowing athletes a deep and restful sleep to recuperate and rest for their highest level of performance yet.
Increase relaxation.
Many athletes are used to living a life of constant movement and activity. This means athletes often have a difficult time relaxing, leaving stress at the forefront of their day-to-day lives. Without sufficient downtime to relax from stress, athletes’ performance and overall health can suffer. Massage Therapy helps to calm the mind and body. It also promotes healthy sleep patterns, allowing athletes a deep and restful sleep to recuperate and rest for their highest level of performance yet.