Therapeutic Effects of Massage
Manipulation of soft tissue by massage is a useful treatment modality, especially when used in addition to other forms of manual therapy. Muscle tightness is often caused by muscle damage and weakness. When a muscle tears, scar tissue (called adhesions) are formed and other waste products and toxins, such as lactic acid, accumulate in the muscle tissue. Sports massage can help overcome the effects of training and injury and aid a very efficient recovery process. Sports massage causes mechanical, physiological and psychological responses.
Mechanical responses
Mechanical responses occur as a direct result of the pressure and movement of the massage onto soft tissue. The massage encourages venous and lymphatic drainage and can also stretch and mobilise scar tissue. Connective tissue can be stretched very effectively by friction massage, which in turn helps prevent large quantities of scar tissue forming. Massage techniques can also be used to increase circulation during periods of inactivity and mobilise edema that can surround a joint as a result of injury.
Physiological Responses
Massage increases the circulation to and in the tissues, which results in an increased metabolism in the musculature of metabolites such as lactic acid. It can also aid in overcoming venostasis and edema by increasing the circulation around the site of injury, and thus assisting in venous return. The reflex effects of massage are processes that, in response to the initiation of impulse signals, can cause relaxation, stimulation and increased circulation.
Psychological Responses
The tactile system is one of the most sensitive systems in the human body. Humans from infancy respond psychologically to being touched. Massage is therefore a very useful way to:
• Build a bond between athletic trainer and athlete
• Induce relaxation
• Ease tension and focus or calm the mind
• Help insomnia
• Give feeling of comfort and well-being
The benefits of massage
Massage can flush out lactic acid and other toxins acquired through muscular stress and relieve muscular soreness. Scar tissue can be softened and re-aligned to help speed up recovery. Massage speeds up the lymphatic drainage system and stimulates blood circulation, aiding the removal of waste products and delivering fresh blood quickly to the muscles to promote healing and encourage relaxation. Massage can also relieve the stress of tired, aching over-worked muscles.
Soft tissue undergoes wear and tear from everyday activities. This soft tissue can be relaxed and stretched through massage to relieve tension. Massage is great for pre-event muscle relaxation allowing the athlete to focus and mentally prepare. Post-exercise massage reduces tension quickly from tired muscles, speeding up recovery rate.
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