- If you are injured, it's important to obtain a diagnosis from a medical professional before seeing your massage therapist. The massage will be different depending on the nature of the injury and which muscles are specifically involved. Also, it's important not to start massage therapy treatments too soon after the injury, as the pressure and friction may actually make the pain worse.
- Massage therapists are trained professionals who know how to do more than simple spa treatments. Many therapists specialize in sports massage, and there may be a few who specialize specifically in rotator cuff injuries. When looking for a therapist, tell them about the nature of your injury and see if they have experience dealing with the problem. Let the therapist know about your specific diagnosis, so they are fully informed when planning your treatment.
- Massage, if applied incorrectly, can further aggravate the injury. It's important not to undertake self treatment too soon after the pain begins. In the days after the injury, apply ice to the affected area and rest as much as possible. For 48 hours, use the acronym RICE. It stands for rest, ice, compress, elevate.
- After applying the RICE method in the days after a minor strain or tear, self-massage can help the healing process. The scapula can be hard to reach, so have a friend or loved one help you apply the techniques. Using the base of your palm, press down lightly on the affected area. After a few of these compressions, push into the flesh with your palm and make circular movements. To dig in deeper, use your fingertips and make small, back and forth motions. To be most effective on these muscle fibers, the friction motions should go up and down, parallel to the spine.
- While these at home techniques can help with a recovery, it's important to see a medical professional if the pain does not subsist. Self-massage for injures is best undertaken when prescribed by a doctor or when performed in consultation with your fully-informed massage therapist.
