These are questions that we typically recieve from someone whose never received a sports massage.
This is massage therapy that uses advanced testing methods and conventional treatment techniques to treat symptoms as well as address their causes.
Yes – both relaxation and remedial, after the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. While massage is completely safe even then, problems in pregnancy such as miscarriage are unfortunately more likely to occur within those first 12 weeks. Therapists therefore are taught to remove themselves from the equation in these unfortunate circumstances.
It depends on individual circumstances. In my clinic, at a first session a client fills out a consultation form of their lifestyle habits and medical history. Where necessary, there will be biomechanical and neural tests to establish the underlying causes of discomfort. This can take anywhere between 5 and 15 minutes. Treatment can be a combination of massage, manipulation, stretching or other sports therapy interventions. At the end of the session, I retest to gauge how a client has responded to treatment. I then give home care advice as and where necessary. This is all done within the amount of time a client has booked, which begins when you come into the treatment room and ends when you leave. That includes undressing at the beginning of a session and dressing at the end.
Most people are comfortable in their underwear. There is ample towelling all the way through to cover the client’s modesty. If you’re not comfortable in your underwear, a pair of loose shorts will suffice. And if that still doesn’t do, you can wear non-slippery loose clothing that the therapist can work through. This may mean oil cannot be used but there are a lot of massage techniques that do not require use of oil. Being able to relax and be receptive to treatment is important, therefore a client’s comfort in their surrounding and trust in their therapist is paramount.
Again, this is very individual. It depends on your reason for seeking out a massage treatment to begin with. Where there are no injuries or long standing issues, a single session may suffice. Some injuries can also be resolved in a one or two sessions. Chronic pain and recurring injuries are more likely to require mid to long term intervention. A therapist is better able to make an informed recommendation after an initial session.
Again, this differs in individual cases depending on a client’s history, the type of treatment you want and what the therapist thinks is necessary. An average of 60-90mins is quite common. Sessions can last up to 2 or even 3 hours. This is however a client’s choice. A therapist can only make a recommendation. Where a session of more than an hour is recommended, always ask for an explanation of the treatment process/plan and why it’s necessary. This in turn will help you make an informed decision as to whether a longer than standard session is in your interest.
I currently hold a BTEC Level 5 qualification in Sport and Remedial Massage therapy. This is the highest qualification possible for a sports massage therapist in this country. I am a member of the Sports Therapy Organisation (STO), Sports Massage Association (SMA) and Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC), which are all nationally recognised as voluntary regulators of complementary therapists and can verify my qualifications.
Additional questions we frequently recieve.
This is massage therapy that uses advanced testing methods and conventional treatment techniques to treat symptoms as well as address their causes.
Yes absolutely – 1) if that is what a client wants and 2) if I think that’s what a client needs. In case of injury, overtraining or fatigue, a gentle massage can be more beneficial as it promotes rest, relaxation and aids healing without adding to further breakdown of fibre or inflammation.
Most conditions such as early pregnancy (first trimester) and infections such as colds and flu are temporary. Some conditions may require modifications in techniques that can be used and how they may be used. Always declare any pre-existing conditions to your therapist at the time of making an appointment as they will know what to do. It may save you a trip.
Yes where necessary – to facilitate stretching or strengthening and restore balance in soft tissue.
Please note: We operate a 48-hour cancellation policy. Appointments cancelled or postponed within this period will be subject to the full treatment fee.