All to often, people are misinformed about the processes of massage and this can create negative and spurious notions about this anciet healing practice.
This blog seeks to debunk these inaccurate claims and provide clairty and reassurance that massage is truly harmonious for the mind and body.
Myth 1: Sports Massage has to hurt to work.
Out of all the myths centred around sports massage, this one is the biggest fallacy.
Whilst sports massage is designed to get deep into fascia and muscle fibres, the level of discomfort experienced is dependent on the following.
Individual pain tolerance levels, for example every one differs with the amount of pressure they can tolerate during a sports massage,so what is painful to one person, may not be for another.
This can be remedied through crystal clear communication between therapist and client during sports massage about what level of pressure suits their individual needs.
In this sense, the client dictates the pressure that is most appropriate to them and this way, eliminating any potential pain that may occur throughout treatment.
Another reason why sports massage may be deemed as painful,is some techniques address deep layers of fascia and muscle. Any discomfort experienced here, is likely to be from tight restricted muscles that have been over used or subject to strain.
Again pain can be avoided through effective communication between the practitioner and client about prefered techniques during a sports massage.
Myth 2: you only need massage when your injured.
Whilst massage andvin particularl sports/Deep tissue massage can effectively address various soft tissue injuries, it is not exclusive to post injury management.
Regular sports/Deep tissue massage can prevent injuries occurring in the first place, it also promotes better posture,increases range of motion and stress reduction.
Myth 3: Massage is JUST a luxury
Whilst certain types of massage particularly those sold in a spas can be deemed as an unaffordable luxury, Deep tissue/Sports massage is a bennifcial self care practice with many bennefits including:
Improved circulation
Decreased muscle stiffness
Decreased joint inflammation
Better quality of sleep
Quicker recovery between workouts
Improved flexibility
Reducing cortisol levels and stress
Improve mood/mental health
Myth 4 Sports massage is only for serious athletes
The term sports massage, is ambiguous and a lot of people think ( for good reason) that it is only for true sports proffesionals.
However, sports massage is just an umbrella term for a treatment that is designed to treat soft tissue aliements, address poor posture, and optimise metal health.
In this sense, it a fantastic self care ritual for anyone from all walks of life and not specifically for the sporting elite.
Myth 5: one massage will cure all injuries
Whilst massage can provide effective relief from pain and discomfort, it is only one piece of the jigsaw in the rehabilitation process.
People must be proactive in managing their own recovery and do all necessary requirements to heal appropriately.
Conclusion: This blog has examined and rectified common myths about massage to provide clarity and reassurance about these common misconceptions.
it is the hope that the reader will use this information to make more informed choices regarding massagevas a self care ritual.