Massage Advice and After Care
What is a massage?
Massage is a series of movements performed using the therapist’s hands, forearms and sometimes elbows depending on the needs of the patients. These massage movements are applied to the client’s body to treat muscular pain and joint stiffness. There are many different types of massage; at Physioflex we use Swedish, Sports and Therapeutic massage.
Massages can be uncomfortable as some tissues can lie deep in the body. If the massage pressure causes too much discomfort you must let your therapist know and they can modify their techniques whilst still achieving an effective treatment. Massage tools can also be used as an adjunct to the aid the therapist to provide the best massage for you.
During a massage, oils or wax are used to reduce friction on the skin. If you have any allergies or you are vegan, please notify your therapist prior to your massage as there are alternatives available within the clinics.
What are the benefits of massage?
A massage can have several benefits, it can;
- Help to relax you and your muscles.
- Reduce tension in your muscles and tissues which can help with preventing injury or future pain.
- Improve blood flow to the affected areas which can help with healing.
- Stimulate the lymphatic system to help reduce inflammation in your body.
- Mobilise muscle and joints to reduce pain and stiffness and improve movement
- Reduce pain you experience from the soft tissues and muscles
- Improve flexibility of collagen (part of our body connective tissues) which can help you to move, bend and stretch.
Possible post treatment adverse effects
Post treatment effects from your massage are possible as your body will react to the treatment provided. These effects should resolve after 24-48 hours.
After your massage you may experience some of the following effects:
- Headaches
- Increased urination and bowel movements
- Dehydration
- Stiffness and soreness in your muscles and tenderness in any areas where deep massage has been given
- Sleepiness and fatigue
- Bruising
- Reduced exercise and sports performance
- A little dizziness immediately after the treatment
All the clinics contain bottles of water and glucose tablets, if needed, to help with some of the possible immediate after effects from a massage session.
What can you do to reduce these effects?
To help with these after effects you can:
- Apply a cold compress to your muscles to reduce stiffness or bruising.
- Drink plenty of water to replenish fluids and reduce dehydration
- Avoid alcohol or caffeine for 12 hours as this can cause further dehydration
- Rest and relax!
If you have any concerns regarding the effects of the massage, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01506237770 or email bookings@physio-flex.co.uk