Recovery is the immediate prerequisite following a sporting injury and is often viewed as a very frustrating time for most athletes or sportspeople. Recovery can be slow, depending on the extent of the injury. Massage therapy seeks to minimise recovery time by hastening healing in conjunction with other rehabilitative techniques. Massage therapy in sports encompasses several techniques targeting various types of injuries and their severities. Sports remedial massage therapy not only achieves pain relief but also helps an athlete to rehabilitate. Sports massage Dover Kent is of quality care that helps in quick recovery within a very short time. There could be a great decrease in pain with the correct kind of technique, including deep tissue massage, myofascial release, and cross-fibre friction, otherwise, the recovery phase can be very well optimised. Below are some of the most common sporting injuries and how massage can help in their treatment process to return the athletes to peak performance quickly.
Shoulder Strain
A shoulder strain or sprain refers to an injury in the ligaments of the shoulder or its surrounding muscles. The ligaments are connected to the scapula, clavicle, and sternum within the shoulder joint. Sports that include heavy or explosive force, crashes, falls from a height, or backward force on the arm may cause strain in the shoulder. This kind of injury makes the ligaments and muscles in the shoulder stretch and tear. Swimmers, rugby and football players, and athletes who overuse their muscles repetitively in games like tennis and golf frequently suffer from shoulder strains. The response to such injuries should be fast to prevent further damage and ensure quick recovery.
Ankle Sprain
A sprained ankle occurs from an injury to the ligaments supporting the ankle. Generally, this injury happens with a quick twist or roll of the ankle, or by rolling onto the side of the ankle after an awkward landing on the foot. Sports that perform drastic and quick changes in directions include rugby, soccer/football, tennis, and basketball, which are very common with ankle sprains. Other activities, such as running, rollerblading, or ice skating, also cause this injury. Grading of an ankle sprain does exist in terms of its severity, but early attention by a physical therapist is very important to reduce swelling and initiate healing. Regular massage therapy can also help, through improved blood circulation, reduced inflammation, and increased mobility.
Knee Ligament Injury
The four major ligaments in the knee include the anterior cruciate ligament, posterior cruciate ligament, medial collateral ligament, and lateral collateral ligament. Of these, the ACL is the most commonly injured ligament in athletes participating in various sporting activities. More sudden twisting movements jumps, and blunt force trauma in contact sports like rugby and football may overstretch or tear the ACL. Participants in major numbers sustain knee ligament injuries through sports like rugby, soccer/football, skiing, surfing, and running. Effective treatment and rehabilitation at the right time are imperative if the individual is to make a full recovery without long-term damage.
Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)
Repetitive Strain Injury originates from repeated movements of a part of one’s body, commonly resulting from straining hand, arm, shoulder, neck, or back soft tissues. The resultant symptoms include painful conditions or numbness, tingling, or tight sensations. Massage therapists correct these sorts of pains with specialised techniques. Also, they educate patients on the grounds of prevention concerning ergonomic equipment and appropriate posture. In addressing causes at the root of RSI and promoting healthy habits, therapists can help patients avoid future injury and maintain optimal function.
Rotator Cuff Injury
Normally, a rotator cuff injury requires surgery, after which one undergoes physical therapy. Massage therapy can be extremely helpful during this recovery phase. It helps break down scar tissue built up due to the surgery, reducing post-surgery pain levels and hastening the healing process of the shoulder. Some other techniques that will help in improving flexibility and regaining range of motion include deep tissue massage and myofascial release.
Tennis Elbow
As a consequence of overstress for some time, by involvement in several activities, especially activities that entail constant administration of force to the wrist, the tendons and muscles found in the elbow region are either damaged or inflamed. The injury, more often than not, results in pain and inflammation on the exterior surface of the elbow. Massage therapy is employed in conjunction with physical therapy, which assists in the elimination of swelling and inflammation of the affected area.
Conclusion
Proper management of common sports injuries is necessary to ensure speedy and effective recovery. Sports massage Dover Kent gives the relevant required skills in massage therapy of treatment programs for specific injuries, be it sciatica, RSI, rotator cuff injury, or tennis elbow. In doing so, aiding techniques that are meant to supply the tissues with blood, reduce inflammation, and increase mobility will play a key role in restoring to full capability after injury.
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