Further detail regarding the benefits of Soft Tissue Therapy
Improved Circulation & Improved General Nutrition of Muscles
Massage stimulates localised blood flow which increases heat within the soft tissue fibres; this enables the interchange of substances including nutrients and oxygen from the blood into the cells and also speeds up the release of waste products from the cells to the lymphatic system. This process increases the muscle metabolism and directly enables the body to heal and rebuild itself.
Increased Power and Performance
Massage helps to improve range of motion and muscle flexibility, this directly impacts the body’s ability to function efficiently and with intensity to facilitate a healthy muscle building response.
Shorten Recovery Time/Reduce DOMS
Waste products build up in muscles during and after exercise, massage can aid this recovery through increasing the circulation and therefore helping to eliminate toxic waste products more quickly than without. Therefore ensuring a faster recovery time and the effect of DOMs Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness) is greatly reduced.
Helps to Prevent Symptoms from Over Training
Massage has a relaxing effect on the soft tissues and the nervous system which can directly aid the reduction of the limiting effect that over training has on muscle growth.
Helps to Prevent and Heal Injuries
Massage stretches the connective tissues and as previously discussed, improves circulation which helps to prevent or break down adhesions. Massage also influences the excretion of certain fluids necessary for tissue repair. Adhesions will reduce the performance of muscles from a range of levels and therefore has a direct impact upon the way the body functions as a whole.
Motion and Flexibility
Deep tissue massage can reduce muscular tension, aiding flexibility in the soft tissues. Massage can help to relax the muscles and flexibility, ensuring better performance, faster recovery between events and reduce the effects of the physical fatigue.
Recovery time shortened
Exercise/competition can be stressful on the body which can lead to injury if not prepared correctly. Sports massage is an excellent way to prepare the muscles due to the increase blood flow to the area being massaged, naturally bringing nutrients and oxygen; eliminating waste products via lymphatic drainage. Inflammation and swelling is reduced and scar tissue can be lessened.
Increased localised supply of oxygen and nutrients to the soft tissue
Massage encourages blood into muscles, this is vital to creating new tissue and increased strength and stamina. Lymphatic drainage is increased and so the muscles are able to more readily remove the waste products/congestion. This will reduce inflammation and so will increase the tissue health. The proteins delivered to the muscles cells ensure repair and growth.
Psychological/emotional benefits
The body is only as strong as the mind, so having a strong mind that is relaxed and focused is a definite edge in highly competitive sports. A stressed athlete is not nearly as capable as one with a clear mind.
Reduces Pain
A body in pain is a sign of overworked muscles and is not healthy. Massage increases blood and lymph fluid flow, thereby speeding the injury rehabilitation process. Massage also helps with pain from spasms and cramps, often associated with regularly high intensity training.