Running is one of the most popular ways of keeping fit. It offers a number of benefits, such as improved mental well-being, stronger muscles and bones, better cardiovascular fitness, and achieving a generally healthier body and mind.
While the rewards of running are undeniable, putting the body under physical strain regularly can also have its downsides. When a runner experiences pain and discomfort, their immediate reaction may simply be to take pain medication or rest for a few days. However, routine sports massage therapy can be a very effective way to ensure that injuries and pain are short-lived.
The physical impact of running
The physical demand of running is very high, especially for those training up for an event or completing a challenge for charity. After going on just a couple of runs, the muscles begin to shorten and build tension, which can in turn lead to reduced blood supply to the muscles and decreased range of movement.
Reduced blood supply can then have a negative impact on the amount of oxygen getting to the muscles and the amount of metabolic waste being removed, leading to a negative effect on performance. Additionally, limited range of movement can result in changes to running technique and a higher likelihood of suffering a muscle strain or other injury.
How can sports massage help?
Sports massage is described as “the management, manipulation and rehabilitation of soft tissues of the body including muscles, tendons and ligaments”. It is a valuable tool which can help reduce the toll running takes on the body, minimise or even eliminate pain, and reduce the chances of becoming injured in future. Not only is this good news for runners’ bodies but also for their running, be it a hobby or a more serious endeavour.
The benefits of sports massage for runners
Sports massage is highly recommended by many runners. Below are some of the benefits this type of therapy can offer.
Enhances recovery
Sports massage works to assist recovery from strain and injury in runners by increasing blood supply and boosting the flow of lymphatic fluid. This encourages the reduction of training-induced inflammation and allows metabolic waste to be removed more effectively. It also improves the oxygen supply to the muscles, which can significantly speed up recovery times and reduce muscle soreness.
This type of therapy also enhances recovery from injuries by removing swelling from the area tin order for new tissue to regrow quicker. While the new tissue is forming, deep tissue massage can be used to manipulative the growing tissue so that it develops in the most effective and efficient way possible.
Increases range of movement and flexibility
To increase joint range of movement and muscle flexibility, massage therapists use stroking and kneading techniques to decrease muscular tension, enhance muscle pliability, and increase muscle length.
This means that the muscles will be able to use their blood supply more efficiently, resulting in improved performance. Also, as the length and pliability of the muscles improves, they can then be stretched further to encourage a less restricted technique, which improves overall performance and reduces the likelihood of future injury.
If you’re in need of sport massage therapy in Sheffield, choose The Hillsborough Chiropractic Clinic. We offer professional sports massages designed to help you recover faster and better. Contact us today for more information.
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