Your massage questions answered

Here are just some of the frequently asked questions regarding sports massage. If there's anything particular you would like to know, please call, email, or complete the Online Enquiry Form on our Contact page.

What are the benefits of massage?

• Deep relaxation is induced, which helps to relieve stress and induces a feeling of wellbeing.
• Massage speeds the removal of waste products which accumulate in the muscles – leading to quicker recovery time after exercise.
• Fat stored in tissues can be reduced – massage encourages fat to be used as an energy source during exercise.
• Neck and shoulder tension is released – making you more relaxed and giving you a better range of movement with less pain or discomfort.
• Sprains, fractures and breaks take less time to heal, as massage encourages the formation of new cells by flushing-out waste and dead cells.
• Mental and physical fatigue is relieved
• Muscular spasms can be eliminated
• Circulation improved
• Joint inflammation and pain can be reduced
• Back pain can be relieved
• The lymphatic system is flushed mechanically, eliminating toxins and waste
• Bursitis responds well to massage
• Adhesions can be broken down to improve mobility
• Massage is excellent for stretching muscles and increasing flexibility

 

Who have you treated?

• British Triathlete and European Silver Medallist, Shona Forrest
• Scottish Pole Vaulter and Commonwealth Games Athlete, Dr Kirsty Maguire
• Scottish Under 21's Womens Hockey Team
• Managing Director of Prestige Water Equipment Ltd., Ray O'Leary
• Athletes referred by Clive Brewer, British Olympic Association
• Club Athletes
• Keep-fit Enthusiasts
• General Public

 

What events have you covered?

• Under-21 International Hockey Celtic Cup
• Four Nations Disability Badminton Championships
• Great North Run
• Moon Walk, Breast Cancer Charity
• Dundee 10k Road Race
• Scottish Senior Athletics Indoor Championships
• Esporta Triathlon
• City of Sunderland Elite Training Camp

 

Can regular treatment reduce the chance of injury?

• Yes receiving regular massage by a well-trained sports massage therapist can identify areas of scar tissue and tight muscles and prevent them from causing you to stop training, or enjoying your activity.

 

Should I receive treatment if I feel unwell?

• If you feel unwell treatment could send any virus you may have around your body, leaving you feeling worse. You may be better consulting your doctor first before receiving your treatment

 

How long does a treatment last?

• A lower body or upper body massage will last approx 30 mins and a full body approx 1 hour.

 

Where are you based?

• We are based in East Kilbride, Scotland. But as we offer a mobile massage service, we aren't restricted to any location.

 

Can you travel to me for the treatment?

• Yes, Sportsrub can be fully mobile so the treatment can be wherever you are at the time you require the treatment.

 

Can you cover any organised events?

• Yes, Sportsrub can provide on-site sports massage cover not only at sports events and venues, but back-stage at concerts, supporting performing arts, and corporate hospitality days. If you have an event in mind call us on: 01355 579834, email us, or complete our enquiry form

 

I don't have an injury, how can massage benefit me?

• In addition to benefits for sports practitioners, massage is an extremely relaxing experience and can help you to unwind from the stresses of normal day-to-day activities. This can prove invaluable, as stress is shown to be a major factor in the onset of depression as well as to many physical ailments.

 

I have an injury. How many sessions will it take to get me fit again?

• During your first consultation, an assessment will be made and it may be possible in some instances to give an approximate idea as to the number of treatments required.

 

I only do sport a couple of times a week, what can massage do for me?

• Sustaining an injury could lead to extended periods of inactivity or time off work. Regular massage will reduce the risk of injury, as well as promoting recovery, and can also frequently identify any potential future problems.

 

What should I wear for my treatment?

• Any clothing is suitable for your treatment. However, bear in mind that dependent upon your needs the removal of outer clothing may be necessary. As most techniques are applied directly to the skin, it is advisable to wear clothing that allows access to areas that require treatment. If you are still unsure please do not hesitate to contact me.

 

How can I pay for my treatment?

• Accepted methods of payment are cash or cheque.

 

Can I book massage sessions as a gift?

• Yes, this has become increasingly popular as an unusual gift that will surely win you lots of Brownie points from the recipient!

 

Are you insured?

• Yes. Unlike some practitioners you will be fully covered for all treatments received.

 

What is the Sports Massage Association?

• The Sports Massage Association is the regulatory body overseeing sports masseurs in the United Kingdom and is recognised as the leading organisation for sports massage by major employers in the UK.

 

How do I know that you are a registered member of the SMA?

• All registered members are listed on the national register which can be found on the SMA website. http://www.sportsmassageassociation.org/ All qualified therapists will also carry a valid membership card.

 

What are the different massage techniques?

Some techniques used in sports massage and their benefits include:

Effluerage:

Physiological effects

• Warms skin and muscle tissue
• Increases cell permeability
• Increase in cell metabolism
• Speeds up waste removal
• Increases supply of nutrients

Mechanical effects

• Improves venous and lymphatic flow

Petrissage:

Physiological effects

• Warms skin and muscle tissue
• Increases cell permeability
• Increases cell metabolism
• Speeds up waste removal
• Increases supply of nutrients
• Stretches muscles-those that can be picked up
• Aids reduction of subcutaneous lipids in conjunction with appropriate exercise

Tapotement:

Physiological effects

• Stimulates nerve endings via receptors in the skin
• Stimulates autonomic nervous system (aggressive or relaxation)
• Creates erythmea of the skin
• Increases muscle contractile potential
• Raises awareness

Compressions:

Physiological benefits

• Increases muscle length
• Reduces muscle hypertone
• Creates pressure gradients
• Releases muscle fibres
• Reduces adhesions

Vibrations:

Physiological benefits

• Calming of the mind
• Use of the body’s natural frequencies

Stretching:

Physiological benefits

• Increases flexibility
• Returns muscle to normal length after exercise

How would you like sports massage to help you?

To find out more, simply call us on: 01355 579834, email us, or complete our enquiry form.