What is sports massage?

Sports Massage is a very specific type of massage which manipulates muscles, ligaments and tendons. It is not a gentle rub-down; it is a remedial and therapeutic treatment which can involve firm massage strokes and pressures as well as focussed holds that encourage relaxation and healing.

How can sports massage help?

One of the greatest benefits of sports massage is in the preparation for and performance of any activity which takes its toll on the body. A pre-event treatment can enhance physical performance by increasing flexibility, breaking down adhesions, improving posture and stimulating the blood and lymphatic systems whilst a post-event treatment helps to cleanse the muscles of acids and deposits, break up fibrous tissues and loosen stiff joints.
In the event of injury sports massage can speed the healing process. It is beneficial for the rehabilitation of tissue damage and aids in the rapid removal of metabolic wastes and build-up of lactic acid thereby reducing muscle soreness and improving recovery times.
As this type of deep massage will encourage the body to release strain patterns and return to a more balanced and normal state, it can also help with general conditions such as lower back pain, tight and aching shoulders and stiff muscles in the arms or legs as part of a maintenance programme.

What happens during a treatment?

On your first visit a detailed case history will be taken, with questions about lifestyle and  general health. This can take up to 15 minutes and so the initial visit is usually booked for that much longer. To save time and therefore reduce your costs please click here to download the Case History Form and post/email to Back2toes prior to your visit.
At the clinic each sports massage treatment lasts for one hour and a course of regular sessions is generally recommended for optimum results. Depending on the presenting condition and area to be treated, you will be asked to remove outer clothing and lie on the special treatment couch. Towels are provided for your privacy.

A range of treatments may be used, such as:

• Cooling treatments using ice and/or Biofreeze gel to help reduce swelling and encourage tissue rejuvenation
• Warming treatments using heat and/or hot wax to stimulate the circulatory systems and soothe those aches away
• Deep “Baton” technique to roll and stretch the muscle fibres to increase flexibility and suppleness
• Testing of muscles and joints to check for muscle, tendon and ligament degeneration, flexibility and tension

Can everybody have sports massage?

There are a few conditions which may mean treatment cannot go ahead or a doctor’s referral may be required, for instance if you have osteoporosis or broken bones. It is important therefore that you submit the completed Case History Form prior to your appointment in order to highlight any issues.

Price per Treatment