What is Sports Massage?
Sports massage is a type of massage that is specifically designed for soft tissues injuries and is usually applied using the hands or other bodies parts, such as the elbows, forearms, knees, and even feet.
The sports massage is usually conducted on athletes by experts in this area with the overall aim of providing relaxation and well being to the patient. The massage is designed specifically to care for musculoskeletal injuries and pain, and also helps to reduce muscle tightness by breaking down adhesions and scar tissue, and it works excellently!
Purpose
Sports massage is designed for athletes to help enhance the athletic performance of the muscles, prevent injuries and also boost the total performance of the athlete.
Sports massage sessions are delivered on three levels. There is the pre-event massage which is conducted about an hour before the commencement of a game. This is then followed by the inter-event massage that is conducted in between the games, usually during rest. The third is the post-event massage which can be done while the athlete cools down or during the athlete’s rest days.
Sports massage is not meant for persons who actively engaged in sports alone. Some athletes who are recovering from certain types of injury are advised to try out sports massage sessions to improve their chances of recovering fully and being in optimal health.
What is Deep tissue Massage?
Deep tissue massage is a massaging procedure which is mainly used to take care of musculoskeletal issues, which includes strains and sports injuries.
Do know that all massage therapists do not have a solid knowledge of deep tissue massage. Some therapists are specially trained for this.
Purpose
Deep tissue massage requires putting sustained pressure by using slow, deep strokes to target the inner layers of your muscles and connective tissues, thereby breaking up scar tissue that is formed as a result of an injury and reduce tension in muscle and tissue. It is a massage therapy that is suitable sports injuries, Fibromyalgia, Plantar fasciitis, High blood pressure, Sciatica, Tennis elbow.
Regular deep tissue massage sessions also promote faster healing by increasing blood flow and reducing inflammation.
Difference
All massages have their amazing benefits and one or two flip sides. Recognizing the massage type that perfectly suits your need is key to enjoying any type of massage. If you are an active individual who is getting ready for a sporting event or recovering from an injury with specific massage needs, then you could opt for the sports massage. However, if you have a case more serious than just getting ready for a sporting event or a minor sports injury, then you should opt for a deep tissue massage. Deep tissue massage sessions are more intense and focus on deep layer massage.
