Pain-free athletes can utilize training and practice more efficiently. Injury is less likely to occur in strong mobile tissue, so acute and chronic injuries are not as severe or as frequent. Additionally, for some athletes, a massage session becomes their time to focus, visualize and/or enjoy a few moments of mental relaxation.

A good sports massage therapist not only works on an area of concern or injury, but he/she works on compensation muscles that are involved with any acute or chronic injury. An acute or chronic injury may cause problems in other parts of the body; for example, chronic low back pain could be a result of tight gluteals, hip flexors, groin or hamstrings. A sports massage therapist can identify these problems and relieve pain by working with appropriate areas.

Pre-Competition Massage

Massage prior to competition usually takes 10 to 30 minutes and should occur 30 minutes to one hour before the event. Most pre-competition massages combine light, vigorous strokes to help warm the muscle tissue and prepare it for use. Combined with athletes' active warm-ups, the chance for injury decrease. A massage therapist who works with an athlete regularly will know his/her areas of concern and can concentrate on that particular area. Caution must be used when utilizing deep massage techniques. Both the massage therapist and athlete must know what deep tissue techniques will do to an athlete's overall physical performance prior to performing those techniques before a competition.

Post-Competition Massage

Massage after a competition can vary in length and should occur as soon after the competitions as possible. Combined with an active cool down, massage can bring muscles to a relaxed state; it also encourages continued circulation minimizing stiffness and delaying soreness. During the post-competition massage, the therapist can identify tight muscles and concentrate on techniques to reduce recovery time. Techniques vary, though long, slow and rhythmic strokes help encourage the cool-down process and mentally relax the athlete. Deeper techniques can be utilized on problem areas as needed.

Maintenance/Treatment Massage

This is the time to look into the soft tissue health of athletes and start moving them to the point of low pain, low injury potential and overall wellness. This 30 to 90 minute massage incorporates a variety of techniques.

What to Look for in a Sports Massage Therapist

A sports massage therapist has taken additional training and education on injuries that usually occur in sport - such as swinging, kicking, swimming, etc. He/she will understand what injuries are prevalent in particular sports and how to treat them. As with any specialty, athletes have specific requirements and contradictions (inadvisable treatments and procedures) particular to the individual athlete, so getting a properly trained therapist is of the utmost importance.

When hiring a massage therapist, be sure to check credentials and insurability. Do not hesitate to ask questions about his/her experience in the sports field. Sports massage therapists are usually willing to answer questions about their profession helping to educate and increase awareness of sports massage therapy.