Effleurage, the long gliding strokes used to begin most every massage, will be used throughout a sports massage at increasing levels of pressure. This rhythmical, deep stroking will help increase circulation and the stretching of muscle tissues.
Petrissage, or kneading, is used to mobilize fluids within deeper muscle structures, stretch these muscle fibers, and induce relaxation.
Compression, a simple pumping action directed into the belly of a muscle, spreads muscle tissue, creates hyperemia (increased blood flow), and softens tight muscle tissue.
Friction is performed at a faster tempo than in a regular Swedish massage and can be circular, transverse, or linear in application. This stroke is used to decrease muscle spasms, separate muscle fibers, increase circulation, and invigorate the person receiving the massage.
Vibration/jostling is used as an effective method of inducing a stressed muscle to relax.
Reciprocal inhibition is a form of stretching that involves the active participation of the client. As the therapist attempts to stretch a muscle or group of muscles, the client actively resists the therapist’s efforts for a period of 10 to 15 seconds. Once the stretching and the resistance are both stopped simultaneously, the muscle in question is given a few seconds to relax. When the therapist resumes the stretch of that same muscle, the flexibility will have increased noticeably. This cycle is repeated at least three times to maximize reduction of stiffness in the muscle.
The client will need to communicate with his or her therapist any areas of tension and intensity of discomfort during the massage to ensure the best possible results.
