eHow launches Android app: Get the best of eHow on the go.

How To

How to Use Sports Massage for Injury Rehab

Contributor
By Carole Vansickle
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)
Sports massage can help you recover from being sidelined much more quickly than traditonal rehab alone.
Sports massage can help you recover from being sidelined much more quickly than traditonal rehab alone.

Sports massage can be incorporated into any type of training or rehab program. Whether you are a professional athlete, a serious exerciser or a casual trainer, sports massage can improve your results, increase your abilities and help you recover from sports-related injuries. In this article, we will discuss how to use sports massage for injury rehab.

From Quick Guide: Sports Health Basics
Difficulty: Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Sports masseuse or trainer

    How to Use Sports Massage for Injury Rehab

  1. Step 1
    Most people know that stretching can help you get the most out of rehab, but sports massage can do even more.
    Most people know that stretching can help you get the most out of rehab, but sports massage can do even more.

    Prepare for training. If you have had to take a break from training due to an injury, starting back can be a painful experience. Sports massage can help prepare your muscles for active workouts after a long break.

  2. Step 2

    Improve range of motion. Even if injuries do not prevent all physical activity, they often allow the muscles in the injured area to tighten up over time and limit your range of motion in a joint or limb. Sports massage experts can help you regain your full range of motion with special stretching and breathing techniques.

  3. Step 3

    Shorten recovery time. Following rehabilitation exercises with a sports massage shortens the recovery time your muscles need in between sessions. This enables you to get back in the game sooner and at peak performance level.

  4. Step 4
    Electronic equipment is a great supplement, but without focus you will not achieve your desired results.
    Electronic equipment is a great supplement, but without focus you will not achieve your desired results.

    Increase your focus. Experts have found that athletes who get regular massages in conjunction with training and rehabilitation recover more quickly, are less likely to suffer from similar injuries later and exhibit a greater degree of focus during rehab. Incorporating sports massage into your injury rehab can help you stay positive and focused on your recovery.

Tips & Warnings
  • There are many different types of sports massage available depending on your type of injury. Work with the masseuse to determine what type of massage meets your needs and goals.
  • Consult a physician before adding sports massage to your therapy or rehab regimen. Some types of massage can dislodge blood clots or create other health problems if they are employed at the wrong point in a rehab session.

Post a Comment

Post a Comment
  • Have you done this? Click here to let us know.
I Did This

Related Ads

Get Free Health Newsletters

Copyright © 1999-2009 eHow, Inc. Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.   en-US Portions of this page are modifications based on work created and shared by Google and used according to terms described in the Creative Commons 3.0 Attribution License.

Live Strong Partner
Livestrong_eHow Health