Massage is a treatment method that is hundreds of years old. Massage can be used as it stands or together with other treatments, e.g. as a pre-treatment for joint or nerve mobilization. In massage, various techniques can be used, such as combining massage and joint mobilization.

The difference between massage and sports massage is very small. In sports massage the timing and goal of the treatment has a central role. Massage techniques and the strength used in them should be chosen in such way that the massage does not disturb training. With athletes, transverse massage and shaking techniques are often most suitable for ensuring fast recovery. In sports massage, the special features of the discipline are noted and the treatment of most strained areas, such as the attachment sites of muscles, is emphasized. Sports massage can be divided into sustaining, treating and diagnosing massage.

Effects of massage

Contraindications of massage

• Infections (bacterial, viral, fungal)
• Thrombosis (massage can be used 2-3 weeks afterwards)
• Bursa inflammation
• Periosteal inflammation
• Active rheumatoid arthritis
• Gout
• Hernia
• Acute injuries: open wounds, muscle sprain, contusions, burns, frostbites, bone fracture
• Malignant cancers
• Some skin diseases (fragile skin is not massaged)
• Enlarged lymph nodes

Mechanical effects of massage

• Warmth caused by friction
• Pumping effect for circulatory system
• Stretching of soft tissues
• Breaking up adhesions
• Breaking up scar tissue
• Increase in permeability of tissues
• Enhancement of microcirculation
• Release of enzymes
• Increase in elasticity

Effects of massage on nervous system

• Reflexive relaxation of muscles
• Mental relaxation
• Pain relief
• Enhancement of microcirculation
• Stabilization of autonomic nervous system
• Reactivation of nervous system
• Placebo effect

Bibliography:

• Sports Institute of Kuortane
• Ylinen J., Cash, M., Hämäläinen, H. 1995: Urheiluhieronta.