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Sports massage focuses on tired, tight, and sore muscles. Any athlete can benefit from a sports massage, whether they’re weekend warriors or newbie exercisers. Sports massage is a type of targeted massage that focuses on deep muscle tissue in a specific area of the body. Athletes tend to use the same muscle groups, which can lead to weakness and tightness. Sports massage has been shown to hold a variety of benefits for athletes and non-athletes alike.

What is a Sports Massage?

Athletes using the same muscle groups constantly can experience inflammation, weakening, tightening, and limited range of motion at the joint. A sports massage is tailored to specifically target the muscle groups that are used most frequently. Although it’s called “sports” massage, it is also a useful tool for physical therapists to treat conditions that stem from overuse and repetitive motion, such as carpal tunnel syndrome.

What are Examples of Massage Techniques in Sports Massage?

  • Swedish massage
  • Kneading massage
  • Compression
  • Rhythmic striking
  • Stretching
  • Gliding
  • Vibration
  • Trigger points
  • Percussion
  • Friction

What are the Benefits of Sports Massage?

Sports massage can benefit athletes in many ways. Not only is it a great way to expedite the muscle healing and recovery process; it can also:

  • Increase an athlete’s range of motion
  • Decrease muscle tension
  • Increase flexibility
  • Decrease muscle spasms
  • Relax nerves
  • Enhance mood
  • Decrease anxiety
  • Result in better sleep quality
  • Increase blood flow
  • Decrease chances of injury or re-injury
  • Shorten recovery period

Who Can Benefit from Sports Massage?

The term “sports massage” might be somewhat of a misnomer. Sports massage techniques are great for people who regularly are on the playing field – and even those who are not! A sedentary lifestyle can also lead to short, tight muscles, pain, and a decreased range of motion. Sports massage will not only help athletes enhance their performance, reduce recovery time, and help to prevent injury; it also helps to keep muscles elongated and strong, and keep people healthier when performing their regular routine.

Finding the Best Sports Massage in Charleston

Not all sports massage therapists or practices are the same. The experience and training of the massage therapist that you hire do matter. At Strength and Recovery, we have licensed, specialized, and experienced sports massage therapists who customize your massage for maximum benefit. We believe that massage is an important practice for all of our patients and athletes. The benefits of sports massage translate both on and off the playing field and can do wonders for keeping you strong, at the peak of your game, and most importantly, off the bench! Contact us to schedule your appointment for a sports massage in Charleston today!