Gaining a Competitive Edge: Massage for Athletes

Most people might assume that professional athletes use massage after their main competition. However, massage can prove beneficial for both professional athletes and weekend warriors before training begins, throughout the training process and after the competition. Whether you are just picking up a new competitive hobby or training for the next marathon, adding massage therapy to your training regimen can really help your body adapt and heal. 

runner on a track

Not every athlete is the same so not every training and treatment program will be the same. A good massage therapist will adjust to their client’s needs. Talk to your therapist about your training protocol and they will work with you to determine what the best options are to help you meet your needs. 

There are three common massage techniques that your therapist might use. The first is called effleurage which is a series of massage strokes that warm up the muscles in preparation for deeper tissue work. Your therapist will use long, slow strokes to sense any underlying muscle issues. Many therapists will use this at the end of a sports massage to close out a treatment session.

Petrissage is a bit different in that it uses slow and rhythmic movements to knead the muscles and fascia. The kneading strokes help to stretch and relax muscles as well as increasing circulation. There is research to suggest that this massage technique can alleviate muscle soreness, facilitate recovery from muscle stiffness, and improve muscle performance. And the final technique, tapotement is described as rapid, percussion-like hand movements, typically performed at the end of a session. 

Whether you are a regular triathlete or just enjoying a few rounds of golf or tennis on the weekends, massage therapy can help keep you at peak performance. 

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Can Massage Therapy Relieve Joint Pain?

For those suffering from joint pain, finding relief is a priority. Whether you suffer from tendonitis, bursitis, arthritis pain or even fibromyalgia, massage therapy can bring some much needed relief to the pain and inflammation that comes with these conditions. 

According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, when performed by a trained and licensed professional, massage therapy can help to control pain, increase joint motion and even improve muscle and tendon flexibility.  continue reading »

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Three Massage Techniques to Relieve TMJ

According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, approximately 10 million Americans suffer from TMJ (also known as Temporomandibular Joint Disorders). If you count yourself among those ranks, then you know just how painful TMJ can be and how desperate many are to find relief. 

TMJ can cause tenderness in the jaw or around the ears and many find it painful or difficult to chew. In more severe cases, the jaw can lock, and you might find yourself having difficulty opening and closing your mouth. Did you know that there are three different massage techniques that can help you find relief? Read on to learn more. continue reading »

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Three Benefits of Oncology Massage

Going through cancer treatment can be a painful and sometimes lengthy process. One of the best ways to combat some of cancer treatments’ worst side effects is through oncology massage. Oncology massage can help you find relief for the anxiety and stress that comes with undergoing treatment, as well as helping to relieve chemotherapy related nausea and help to control pain.  continue reading »

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Massage for Palliative Care

According to the National Cancer Institute, “Palliative care is care meant to improve the quality of life of patients who have a serious or life-threatening disease, such as cancer. It can be given with or without curative care. Palliative care is an approach to care that addresses the person as a whole, not just their disease. The goal is to prevent or treat, as early as possible, the symptoms and side effects of the disease and its treatment, in addition to any related psychological, social, and spiritual problems.  Patients may receive palliative care in the hospital, an outpatient clinic, a long-term care facility, or at home under the direction of a licensed health care provider. Anyone can receive palliative care regardless of their age or stage of disease.” continue reading »

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Three Benefits of Pediatric Massage

It’s not uncommon for adults to seek out massage therapy to deal with life’s stresses and bodily aches and pains, but children can also benefit from regular massage therapy visits. Research has shown that pediatric massage can help enhance a child’s physiological, neurological, and psychological development.  continue reading »

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5 Benefits of Therapeutic Massage for Seniors

As we age, we all experience our bodies slowing down. Joints might begin to ache and stiffness appears where it didn’t exist before. The physical activities we used to do on a regular basis might be more difficult or the recovery time after the physical exertion is extended a lot longer than we would like. Regular therapeutic massage a very effective way to help our bodies combat the signs of aging. It’s not just a spa day treat but can help keep your body functioning optimally at any age. Below are just five benefits of regular massage. continue reading »

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3 Types of Massage for Fibromyalgia

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fibromyalgia is a “condition that causes pain all over the body, sleep problems, fatigue, and often emotional and mental distress. Fibromyalgia affects about 4 million U.S. adults, about 2% of the adult population. The cause of fibromyalgia is not known, but it can be effectively treated and managed. continue reading »

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Four Benefits of Massage for Mental Health

Recognizing the greater need for mental health services of all kinds, especially in the wake of Covid and the lockdowns, has become of paramount importance in the last couple of years. And many people are looking for drug-free alternatives to improve mental health. Massage therapy is a great option to improve not only mental health but other physical health concerns as well. Here are just four benefits of how massage therapy can help improve mental health.  continue reading »

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Three Benefits of Prenatal Massage Therapy

We all know how great a massage is when our muscles are tight and we are dealing with the stress of everyday life. However, many women are reluctant to enjoy the benefits of massage when they are pregnant. It’s always a good idea to check with your prenatal care provider before scheduling a massage just to make sure there are no concerns. And, don’t hesitate to share any concerns with us if you are expecting yet still want to enjoy a great relaxing massage. Moms to be, need it more than ever! continue reading »

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