Athletes are known for utilising their bodies to the fullest to perform outstanding physical feats or play a winning game, either individually or with the help of team members’ combined efforts. Compared to a person who prefers (or is required) to sit in an office for most of the work day and refrains from engaging in any form of rigorous physical activity during their free time, an athlete will generally commit to spending an hour or two (or more) each day working out or training for a sport.
Although athletic individuals will often get proper instruction from trainers or coaches (or do research on the correct ways to train and work out by themselves) to prevent possible injuries or accidents, it is still highly likely for them to suffer injuries now and then, causing them to take time off from their usual active routines. When this happens, they will need to consult specialists in sports massage. London clinics have many skilled and highly trained massage therapists specifically focused on treating athletes, creating rehabilitation programmes and helping their patients recover better to return to their optimal physical condition.
Why do athletes become injured?
There are several reasons for injuries. A person may fail to warm up adequately before working out or practising for a game. He may be doing drills or exercises that do not target the muscles that work the hardest when playing a specific sport. The person may also be poorly conditioned for the rigours of competition or organised physical activity—he could be dehydrated or fatigued, for example—and put too much exertion on his body. Injuries can be caused by any one or a combination of these.
What are the common injuries for which they are at risk?
Athletes often suffer strains, sprains, fractures, dislocations, swollen muscles and knee pains. Different sporting activities can cause other injuries. Baseball and tennis players and golfers, for example, often perform swings, and this repetitive motion can cause injuries to the arms and shoulders. Football players may suffer injuries after hard impacts, like coming into contact with other players and experiencing a nasty fall. On the other hand, the legs and feet of runners, cyclists and swimmers bear the brunt of their physical activity, so the muscles in these limbs can cramp or swell from overuse.
How can sports therapists help?
Specialists in sports massage therapy for athletes have extensive knowledge and training in examining injured body areas and evaluating the extent of the injuries or damages. Physiological, biomechanical and anatomical principles need to be considered to determine a proper diagnosis. They then prescribe a suitable treatment and rehabilitation programme that can help the body heal in the correct amount of time. Surgical procedures, as well as non-surgical options like sports massage, can be recommended.
The benefit of sports massage
Sports massage is an excellent alternative to repetitive muscle injuries, including those caused by playing sports. You may additionally use sports activities to increase flexibility and performance. Sports massage may also alleviate pain, anxiety, and muscle tension.
You will have sports massage even while clothed or without clothes. If you decide to wear clothing, ensure it’s thin and loose and permits the therapist to apply pressure to your muscles.
Sports massage for sports injuries can help reduce muscular complaints and educate patients on prevention practices to avoid similar or more severe injuries.