Massage
My aim is not only to continue supporting this crucial connection with elite sport, but also bring the benefits of sports massage to anyone who is active be it in their job or leisure time.
(Sports massage is the ideal avenue to assist the treatment and prevention of poor function and injuries resulting in pain, through fundamental steps taken regarding soft tissue health, range of movement, tone, symmetry, balance and overall posture)
The techniques used in sports massage are not exclusive to this area but the knowledge and understanding of the physiological and psychological effects of them in a sporting or exercise situation distinguishes the field.
My role as a sports massage practitioner / therapist is to bring about the following benefits:
- To manage, manipulate and rehabilitate the soft tissues in the body
- To aid preparation for activity or recovery from it
- To release or create muscular tension
- Increase or restore natural function, condition and range of movement of ligaments, tendons and muscles
- To improve circulation and lymphatic drainage
- To ultimately invigorate or calm, physically and mentally
These benefits of sports massage are achieved through combining the pool of hand skills and techniques below. They are used in a variety of ways, varying the depth, tempo and body part which can alter the outcome. Body parts involved in movement can be massaged, back, arms, hands, neck, upper chest, buttock area (gluets), legs and feet. One area can be focused upon or a few depending on the intensity of the massage required, the problem presented or outcome desired. This outcome or goal is mutually determined at the start of each session to ensure the client's needs are met. Individual's tolerances are adhered to at all time also. No two massages are ever the same given that the variables involved are so vast. However personal preferences and individual responses are always considered.
Effleurage - The skin is stroked with pressure towards the heart. Applied with hand or hand and forearm, pressure is kept constant and the area covered is broad.
Petrissage - Two hands move in inwardly moving circles, which intersect and a 'wringing' or torque is placed upon the soft tissue.
Vibrations - The shaking of a relaxed muscle group usually a limb or the rocking of the whole body at a natural comfortable frequency.
Dermal Lifting - The lifting / rolling of the dermal layers of the skin away from the muscle and skeletal structures.
Tapotement - The dynamic and noisy percussive technique used directly on the skin or through clothing.
Compressions - The direct application of static pressure into the muscle or connective tissue.
Friction - The rubbing over and across a soft tissue.
Stretching - Combining the lengthening effects of active and passive stretching.
RPM Sports massage can be used in conjunction with other therapies and referrals to and from other health care professionals, for example Chartered Physiotherapists, Chiropractors, Osteopaths and Consultants are welcome and encouraged. This is to maintain high standards of professionalism and to bring the best potential result for the client.
