Sports massage is a preventative and maintenance therapy as well as addressing muscular problems should they occur.
The five uses of sports massage are:
Pre - event treatment
A pre -event treatment stimulates the mind and body working on the event muscle groups to ensure peak performance. It prepares the muscular and nervous systems for co-ordinated response to the event. Can be used as part of the warm up but not a replacement. Pre - event massage should only be done if the athlete is used to it for pre-event.
Between event treatment
The aim is to speed recovery from the previous event. Any micro trauma is addressed allowing the body to prepare for the next event. Helps treat any damage and fatigue between events and speeds recovery.
Post event treatment
Should be done within two hours of exercise if possible where it can help the cool down process and aid the healing process and promote relaxation. It is 3 to 4 times more effective in preventing muscle fatigue and helps prevent future injury by completely relaxing the muscles. It can help return to the training regime earlier. If unable to get massage on the same day muscles should be kept warm and massaged the following day.
Preventative
Preventative massage aims to keep the muscles in prime condition. Tissues become more supple and it helps enhance flexibility and performance. Can be an integral part of an athlete's training programme. Pinpoints and treats problem areas at the early stages.
Corrective
Corrective massage aims to focus on the treatment of injured tissue. It is the most focused type of massage which pin points problem areas.