4 Benefits of Massages for Athletes

Being an athlete requires dedication and hard work. Athletes put their bodies through a lot of physical stress. They do so to achieve the desired results in any sport. That is why it is essential to replenish the body’s energy. Several therapeutic methods can help ease physical stress. One of the most effective ways is through massage therapy. 

What Is Massage Therapy?

This treatment involves using different techniques, movements, and pressures to manipulate soft tissue in the body. The goal is to do the following:

• Release tension and stress

• Slow down the nervous system

• Heal injuries

• Provide relief from symptoms

• Support wellness

Massages come in different sizes and shapes. The most common massages include Swedish, deep-tissue, sports, trigger point, lymphatic, myofascial release, and prenatal massage. 

Sports Massage for Athletes

Sports massages are like deep-tissue massages. However, they target the muscles that take a beating while playing, exercising, or doing repetitive activities. Athletes use their bodies differently than the average individual. Sports massage therapy can address sports injuries and relieve muscle tightness. 

Benefits

It is reasonable to expect strains and injuries while playing sports. Many athletes must switch between the gym, work, and school. These factors can put enormous strain on the body. 

Fortunately, sports massages can help alleviate physical and psychological strain on the body. While exercise benefits you, it is equally beneficial to relieve tension and stress from your body as much as possible. Massage therapy can help athletes in the following ways:

Injury Prevention

As an athlete, you can expect to sustain an injury at some point in your life. When that happens, your immediate response is to take the necessary steps to heal as soon as possible and avoid aggravating your injury. 

Fortunately, regular sports massages can reduce your soreness, helping you prevent injuries. Furthermore, you will be more agile and flexible, reducing your injury risk significantly. It is helpful to remember that one of the most common causes of injuries is tensed muscles.

Reduction of Pain and Inflammation

Athletes often experience mild to chronic inflammation and pain, significantly impacting their performance. These problems can hinder your body’s proper functionality. Fortunately, regular massage therapy can dramatically reduce muscle inflammation and pain.

Your muscles need lots of energy to reduce inflammation. Massage therapy triggers mitochondria production, helping your muscles retain sufficient energy to reduce inflammation. You can also reduce pain with the right approach and keep your muscles healthy.

Injury Recovery

Besides preventing injuries, regular massages can help accelerate healing when you sustain an injury. With the right approach, it can heal muscle and joint injuries faster. Also, a recent study suggests that massage therapy can decrease muscle soreness resulting from vigorous physical activity. 

Improved Blood Circulation

Healthy circulation is crucial for athletes. It boosts oxygen transfer to the cells to create energy for the muscles. Massage therapy also improves lymph flow, maintaining your body’s vascular functionality.

Whether you are an amateur or professional athlete, massage therapy can help you stay fit and healthy. Cultures around the world have been using massage for ages. It is one of the oldest techniques used to treat pain. Nowadays, massage therapy treats anxiety, stress, and various health conditions.

For more on massage therapy, call Vitality Chiropractic & Rehab at (412) 646-1991 to reach our office in Monroeville, Pennsylvania.