When you come to see us here at Clear Physio for a sports massage, you’ll find that we employ a range of different massage techniques to help bring you relief from any aches and pains you may be feeling, while ensuring that your muscles remain strong and supple to support you in your chosen activities.
Here’s the lowdown on just some of the main techniques we are likely to use when you book an appointment with us.
Effleurage
This technique is something we use to increase blood circulation throughout the body, helping it to get rid of waste and toxins, while preparing your muscles for more vigorous massage therapies. It involves using long stroking movements using fingers or a flat hand, with the aim being to improve the flow of the lymphatic system.
Petrissage
When it comes to targeting your tissues and underlying muscles, one of the most effective techniques is petrissage. It involves tissue manipulation in the form of stretching, kneading and squeezing to help relieve tension and loosen the muscle fibres, while stimulating the skin to aid the drainage of toxins and waste elimination through the lymphatic system.
Tapotement
One interesting massage technique that we often use on the fleshy more muscular parts of the body is tapotement, also known as rhythmic striking. The aim is to help increase blood circulation, stimulate nerve endings and encourage reflex muscular contraction, as well as potentially helping to improve breathing when used on the back or chest.
Vibration
We also often use vibration massage techniques to help relieve muscle tension, decrease stress and stimulate nerve endings. In this instance, the technique is finer and more gentle, using the hands and fingers at a slower pace to help you feel more relaxed.
Want to find out more about the benefits of this kind of massage therapy? Check out this blog on the Women’s Health website.
