what is sports massage & remedial soft tissue therapy?

The Sports Massage Association defines sports massage (aka soft tissue therapy), as:

“Soft Tissue Therapy is the management, manipulation and rehabilitation of soft tissues of the body including muscles, tendons and ligaments. It is applicable not just to sports people but to anybody wishing to guard against or recover from a soft tissue injury.”

who benefits?

"Sports" Massage is appropriate for anyone because it's all about maintaining the health and condition of your body, regardless of who you are and what you do! A variety of techniques are used, helping to treat injuries, chronic pain, used as a maintenance massage for injury prevention or as a stress release. Sometimes you don't even need a reason other than for the enjoyment and taking time out!

Hannah recognises the importance of treating every case individually, from choice of techniques to how much pressure you like. It's important to note that when it comes to sports massage, pain does not necessarily mean gain, and as Hannah has gained experience she has become highly sensitive to listening to the body and choosing the pressure she thinks is appropriate to achieve the best results, without leaving you feeling too sore the next day. Plus, it's important that any discomfort you experience feels "positive" to ensure you enjoy the treatment and can stay relaxed - Hannah wants to relieve stress not cause it (and a relaxed body is far easier to massage too!).

sports & remedial soft tissue therapy can be used for:
  • Injury prevention for athletes (participating at any level in sport)
  • Aiding in the recovery of sports injuries and chronic pain
  • Maintenance of long-term health issues, such as rheumatoid arthritis
  • ​Pregnancy & Post-Natal massage
  • Relieve tension in the body
  • Reduce stress
  • Improved performance and recovery
  • Pain education, reduction and management
  • Greater flexibility and joint function
  • Maintain or restore muscle balance
  • Postural imbalances
  • Break down scar tissue from surgery or injury
  • TLC!
Plus Hannah's background in nutrition means she can suggest dietary changes to help reduce inflammation, which when combined with massage,  can help with the management and treatment of painful inflammatory and chronic pain conditions.

what should I expect?
Let Hannah know if it's your first sports massage so she can put you at ease and answer any questions you might have.

Wear suitable clothing that you can easily move in for assessments. During the massage you will only be asked to remove any clothing covering the area requiring treatment. Please bring a pair of shorts if you prefer and ladies a bra that can be undone at the back.

A massage (especially the first one) can leave you feeling relaxed, sleepy, cold (a 'massage coma'!) so Hannah advises leaving some time afterwards to enjoy your newly relaxed body before rushing back into daily life. You are strongly advised against any exercise/ training so you don't overload your body or risk injury - a gentle walk is ok.

Anyone under the age of 17 must have a parent or guardian present.