"Mike's passion for NLP, his vast knowledge, drive and enthusiasm, together with his true caring for people, make him a truly inspiring Trainer & Coach of NLP. He is a true "student of the game," and committed to life long learning; a great model".
...John Overdurf, Master Trainer, Co-Developer HNLP
Sports Massage Therapy
Massage
I provide 3 main types of massage services, depending upon the needs of the client.
Type 1: General relaxation massage.
Type 2: Deep tissue massage.
Type 3: Sports specific massage.
The following is a brief intro to sports massage.
Sports Massage is valuable in many areas, such as:
- Soft tissue muscular injury
- Injury prevention and performance improvement
- Musculoskeletal imbalances
- Pre/Post sporting event massage
- Pre/Post Training
- In conjunction with stretching and rehabilitation
Effects of Sports Massage
The application of sports massage will induce a physiological and psychological response.
The physiological effects of sports massage
The mechanical pumping action of the strokes will stimulate circulation, aiding in the decongestion of tissues by reducing blood viscosity and tissue pressure. This increases the ability of nutrients and oxygen to diffuse into tissues to supply the cells. Venous and lymphatic return is improved increasing removal of waste products from the tissues. There will be an increased rate of healing and tissue repair with longitudinal and transverse stretching improving soft tissue mobility and influencing the production and formation of collagen fibres.
Specific techniques can reduce microspasm in muscle fibres and separate fibres that have become adhered together allowing greater movement and releasing pressure on trapped capillaries and nerve endings. This will help reduce discomfort, increase range of movement and strength and reduce the risk of damage to surrounding local tissues.
The psychological effects of sports massage
Massage can affect the mental state of a client by either stimulating them or reducing their level of stress.
When massage is performed vigorously it can help increase mental alertness and leave the client feeling stimulated and ready for activity. The physiological response from a treatment will result in chemical changes such as an increase of adrenaline and endorphins in the body, altering the client’s psychological state.
General anxiety can be reduced by similar chemical responses as tension is mechanically lessened in tissues allowing blood to flow into a greater area thereby reducing blood pressure. As the body perceives a reduction in physical tension the mind follows bringing about feelings of well being and relaxation.
The placebo effect of what the sports massage therapist tells the client can have a very positive impact on their performance or treatment outcome as their beliefs, given to them by positive communication by the therapist, can be reflected in their physical condition.
The mind and the body are reflections of each other so if a sports massage therapist alters one of these through treatment or communication the other will follow.
The benefits of sports massage
The improvement to tissue condition will reduce muscle stiffness, pain and fatigue while increasing flexibility and range of movement. As excess tension is relieved and hypotonic muscles are stimulated, improved balance between muscle groups will be gained and greater postural awareness will develop.
Where dysfunction is present massage can improve the speed and quality of soft tissue repair through effective treatment and post-care advice.