What is Sports Massage and What Are the Benefits?

If you are an athlete or you have a physically demanding job or lifestyle, you may want to consider sports massage. Many times when our bodies are overworked, they become sore. A traditional massage can provide some relief, but after regularly pushing our bodies to their limits, a more rigorous physical therapy may be required. This is where sports massage, or sports recovery therapy, comes in. 

This specific form of massage therapy involves manual manipulation of muscles that are utilized frequently, based on what the individual’s needs are. Prior to beginning therapy, an assessment is completed to determine the areas that need attention and to develop a treatment plan. Often, this treatment will hone in on joints, muscles, and soft tissues that are particularly over-exerted during the physical activity completed by the individual. Regardless of whether you are an athlete or are physically active for other reasons such as a job or a hobby, there are many benefits of sports massage. Let’s check them out! 

Flexibility

One of the main benefits of sports massage is increased flexibility and an improved range of motion. This is essential to individuals who play sports or lead active lifestyles, as the mobility and function of their body directly impacts their ability to perform their activities. Sports massage reduces muscle rigidity, helps them to relax, allowing stretches to work better, leading to that increased flexibility. 

Recovery Time

Another one of the benefits of sports massage is an improved recovery time. We are all familiar with the soreness and stiffness that can result from overworking your body. By regularly having sports massage therapy done, you can reduce this recovery time needed for your muscles, allowing them to bounce back faster and stronger than ever. 

Muscle Health

Sports massage can also improve the overall health of your muscles. Massage encourages circulation, distributing oxygen and nutrients throughout your muscles more efficiently. In addition, massage helps to reduce the buildup of lactic acid and carbonic acid that is produced as a waste product from muscle contractions. By having sports massage therapy done regularly, you can help eliminate these wastes and replenish nutrients to keep your muscles healthy and functioning properly. 

Reduced Pain

Another benefit of sports massage is pain reduction. The circulation that massage encourages throughout the muscles helps to reduce inflammation that contributes to pain. This leads to less muscle tension and swelling, allowing your body to recuperate quicker and with less discomfort. 

Sports Massage at Perfect Balance Day Spa 

Ready to experience the benefits of sports massage for yourself? Have you been searching for “sports massage near me?” Perfect Balance Day Spa offers many massage therapies, including sports massage in Indianapolis. Get in touch with us today!