Sports and Remedial Massage is a discipline using specific massage and neurological techniques on the soft tissues of our bodies, i.e. muscles, tendons, ligaments and the fascia surrounding these tissues, namely Neurological Massage Technique (NMT), Muscle Energy Techniques (MET), Soft Tissue Release (STR).
Benefits
Sports and Remedial Massage can improve performance on both a competitive level and from a well-being perspective; hence it could be beneficial for those individuals who participate in sport and others who are not as physically active. The trials and tribulations of everyday life can take their toll, both physically and mentally for which this type of massage can also be a very effective treatment.
The massage assists the natural repair process of the soft tissues from injuries such as strains, sprains and scar tissue. The breakdown and remodelling of acute and chronic scar tissue improves the elasticity of the soft tissues, allowing greater performance of the muscles and flexibility of the joints, therefore reducing the chance of injury.
It also improves the blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, assisting in the repair of the soft tissues and removal of metabolic wastes, for example, lactic acid, a by-product of moderate to intense exercise.
On a neurological level, massage both stimulates and sedates the nervous system. Varying the tempo of the technique allows the treatment to be an effective part of both the pre-and post event process (warm up/down), treating muscle spasms and reducing stress and tension.
Postural imbalances cause the muscles to counterbalance each other to keep us upright and to protect our nervous system. Tight, weak muscles will then form, resulting in poor posture and often pain and discomfort. A remedial massage can be invaluable to manage and correct this condition thereby improving quality of life.