Sports massage is a type of therapeutic massage that helps athletes and active individuals recover from intense physical activity. In conjunction with remedial massage, it is also useful for the non-athletic for addressing everyday tensions and pain caused by modern lifestyle factors and the effects of stress. One of the key benefits of sports massage is its ability to flush lactic acid out of the muscles, which can help reduce muscle soreness and improve athletic performance. In this blog you will learn more about lactic acid and its effects on the body, as well as the role of sports massage in helping the body drain lactic acid build up.
What is Lactic Acid?
Lactic acid is a by-product of the body’s normal metabolic processes, and it is produced when the body breaks down glucose (sugar) to generate energy. During intense physical activity, the body’s demand for energy increases, and the muscles begin to produce lactic acid at a faster rate. This can lead to a build-up of lactic acid in the muscles, which can cause discomfort and muscle soreness.
Symptoms of lactic acid build-up
The symptoms of lactic acid build-up can vary depending on the individual and the severity of the build-up. Some common symptoms include muscle fatigue, stiffness, and a burning sensation in the muscles. In severe cases, lactic acid build-up can cause cramping and difficulty moving the affected muscles.
If left unchecked, lactic acid build-up can lead to decreased athletic performance and a longer recovery time after physical activity. It is important to address lactic acid build-up in the muscles as soon as possible in order to minimize its effects on the body. This can be done through a variety of methods, including sports massage, stretching, and rest.
How Sports Massages help to flush out Lactic Acid – Blood Flow, Scar Tissue and Lactic Acid
Sports massage helps flush lactic acid out of the muscles by increasing blood flow to the affected muscles. When the blood flow to the muscles is increased, the body is able to more efficiently transport lactic acid out of the muscles and into the bloodstream, where it can be metabolized and eliminated from the body.
The increased blood flow that occurs during a sports massage can also help to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the muscles, which can help them recover more quickly from intense physical activity. This can help reduce muscle soreness and fatigue, and improve athletic performance.
In addition to increasing blood flow, sports massage also helps to break down scar tissue and adhesions in the muscles. Scar tissue and adhesions can develop in the muscles as a result of repetitive strain or injury, and they can cause stiffness and discomfort. By breaking down scar tissue and adhesions, sports massage helps to improve flexibility and range of motion in the muscles, which can improve athletic performance.
More On Sports Massages
Sports massage should be performed by a trained massage therapist and involves the use of a variety of massage techniques, including kneading, compressions, stretching and a range of neuromuscular techniques. The massage therapist will typically focus on the muscles that are most used during specific athletic activities or sports. A good sports massage therapist will address mechanical issues that may be causing tension and discomfort. This addresses both causes and symptoms of discomfort, leading to longer-lasting relief.
It is important to remember that sports massage is different from regular massages and should only be performed by a trained massage therapist who is familiar with the specific needs of athletes. Regular massages are typically designed to promote relaxation and overall well-being, whereas sports massage is specifically to help athletes and non-athletes recover from intense and recurring physical activity.
Conclusion
In conclusion, sports massage is a valuable tool for athletes and active individuals. By increasing blood flow to the muscles and helping to flush lactic acid out of the body, sports massage helps reduce muscle soreness and improve athletic performance. If you are an athlete or active individual, consider incorporating sports massage into your regular routine to help keep your muscles healthy and performing at their best.
