5 Surprising Benefits of a Sports Massage

Despite the fact that the term “sports massage” evokes the idea that the treatment should only be used by “sporty” people, this simply isn’t the case. In fact, sports massages simply address the body’s muscles and soft tissues with the aim of reducing aches and pains, improving your posture or avoiding more serious injuries down the line. Because of this, sports massage therapy can be beneficial to all types of people - from professional athletes to office workers.

If you’re thinking about booking in with a massage clinic, here are five ways that a sports massage can benefit you that you might not have been aware of already.



1. Anxiety & Stress Relief

Because sports massages are designed to improve your physical health, you wouldn’t necessarily think that they would have a bearing on your mental health, too. However, it’s been proven that sports massage therapy is an effective tool for reducing anxiety and stress levels. By relaxing your muscles and soft tissues, sports massages promote the release of endorphins, which in turn decreases the amount of stress hormones in your body. If you’re going through a particularly stressful or anxiety-inducing time in your life, a sports massage can be a good way to help you relax.

2. Better Posture

Whether it's job or lifestyle-related, poor posture can cause lots of back pain and joint pressure if left untreated. Sports massage is just one type of massage that can be used to rectify this issue, with therapists using a combination of deep strokes, mobilisations and myofascial releases to improve posture. This can be massively beneficial for relieving acute pain and relaxing tight muscles.

3. Improved Sleep Hygiene

Because sports massage therapy is a more vigorous form of massage that really works the muscles, this can help to increase serotonin levels, which in turn produces more melatonin and may help patients fall asleep more easily. Plus, it goes without saying that the relaxation benefits are enough to get anyone ready for a good night’s sleep!

4. Stronger Immune System Function

Sports massages are known for promoting increased circulation and lymphatic flow, which helps transport healthy nutrients around your body and filter metabolic waste. On top of this, studies have shown that sports massages can increase the level of lymphocytes - the cells that help the immune system fight off harmful substances in the body.

5. Improved Circulation

The friction created between the patient’s skin and the masseuse’s hands stimulates improvements in both blood and lymphatic circulation. With improved circulation, the body can better maintain muscle strength and energy.

Therapeutic Massage Treatments in Sheffield

Whatever the reason you’re seeking out sports massage therapy, at The Hillsborough Chiropractic Clinic, we offer professional sports massages that can help you recover from sports injuries faster and more effectively. We also have relaxing massage options available, including therapeutic massages, which can incorporate manual lymphatic drainage. To discover more information about massage clinic prices and to book in with one of our experienced massage therapists, contact us today.