Sports, Swedish and Pregnancy Massage

Sports Massage is the management, manipulation and rehabilitation of soft tissues of the body including muscles, tendons and ligaments. It is applicable not just to sports people but to anybody wishing to guard against or recover from a soft tissue injury.

A sports  massage therapist identifys and corrects the movement pattern that is causing an injury. A range of techniques can be used including:

• Lymphatic Massage - which stimulates lymphatic-drainage pathways to improves the body's removal of swellings and toxins
• Myofacial Release - a non-invasive hands-on method of decreasing pain and increasing range of movement which can produce long term results
• Trigger Point of Neuromuscular techniques - to break down knots in the muscles and increase range of motion, reduce hypersensitivity, muscle spasms and referred pain

Different types of sports massage:

• Pre-event Sports Massage - a short, stimulating massage 15 - 45 minutes before an event directed toward the parts of the body that will be involved in the sport
  
• Post-event Sports Massage - given within approximately 60 minutes of the event to normalise the body's tissues
  
• Restorative Sports Massage - given during training to allow you to train harder with fewer injuries
  
• Rehabilitative Sports Massage - aimed at alleviating pain due to injury and returning the body to health

A sports massage is especially beneficial in:

• Helping you get into shape faster 
• Reducing stiffness and soreness
• Reducing the chances of injury
• Improving your range of movement and flexibility
• Shortening the recovery time between workouts or training
• Maximising the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the body
• Eliminating toxins from the body 

Swedish Massage is an holistic approach to relaxation of the mind and body and has proven effect in the treatment of muscle aches and pains. It is a uses softer strokes on the bonier and more delicate parts of the body, and stronger strokes where there is thicker muscle coverage. It is a soothing and relaxing experience and should never hurt.  It is especially beneficial in:

• Easing muscle tension
• Improving circulation
• Eliminating toxins
• Boosting your immune system
• Relieving tired and stiff joints
• Increasing energy levels
• Aiding sleep
• Reducing cellulite 
• Reducing anxiety and stress

Pregnancy Massage is a gentle form of massage and should be  provided by certified therapists who have received training beyond the national standards for massage therapists and know how to address specific pregnancy and massage needs Pregnancy massage can helps in:

• Reducing back and joint pain 
• Improving circulation
• Reducing swelling and inflamation
• Reducing muscle tension and headaches
• Providing relief from stress and anxiety
• Improving oxygenation of soft tissues and muscles 
• Improving sleep