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Value of Sports Massage for Athletes

If you're an athlete of any kind, whether in a professional sense or just in any other way you take seriously, chances are you're regularly in search of ways to limit the kinds of aches, pains and other discomfort that can arise from regular heavy activity. You have several great resources here, and one of your single most useful is the realm of sports massage.

At Body Balance Massage and Float, we're here to offer a huge range of sports massage and other massage therapy techniques to clients around Lehi, Orem, Highland, Saratoga Springs and nearby parts of Utah. What is a sports massage, and which benefits does it offer? Let’s take a look. 

massage therapy value injury rehabilitation

How Sports Massage Works

Sports massage is known as one of the broadest massage therapy techniques out there, often combining distinct elements of several related practices. This hits at the primary goal of sports massage, which is to tailor specifically to the needs of each individual athlete. This means catering to the specific muscles, movements and activities that are common in your sport or activity of choice.

Some of the various techniques that may be combined here involve Swedish massage, deep tissue massage and myofascial release. All of these are designed to target areas like muscle tension, soreness or even injuries that may arise through sports activity.

Our next several sections will go over why this can often be quite valuable for various athletes.

Muscle and Nerve Relaxation

One of the first and most notable benefits of sports massage is the way it helps relax muscles and nerves. This includes both physically and mentally, as athletes often hold tension in these areas due to the intense physical demands placed on their bodies.

Not only does this allow for a more pleasant experience during training or competition, but it also aids in injury prevention. When muscles are overly tense, they are more susceptible to strains, tears and other injuries. By promoting relaxation in these areas, sports massage helps reduce the risk of these issues.

Improved Recovery

Another major advantage of sports massage is its ability to aid in recovery after intense physical activity. During exercise, muscles build up lactic acid and other metabolic waste products that can contribute to soreness and fatigue. Through targeted massage techniques, these waste products can be flushed out of the muscles, promoting faster recovery and reduced pain.

Increased Flexibility and Range of Motion

In addition to relaxation and recovery, sports massage also helps increase flexibility and range of motion in athletes. By targeting specific areas of tightness or restriction, massage therapists help release tension and improve blood flow to these areas. 

This allows for greater mobility, which can be crucial for athletes looking to perform at their best. With improved range of motion, athletes can move more freely and efficiently, leading to better performance and lower risk of injury.

Improved Well-Being

While the physical side of sports massage may be the most well-known, there are also mental and emotional benefits to consider. For athletes who put their bodies through intense training and competition, it's important to have a way to unwind and de-stress.

Sports massage can provide this release, allowing athletes to relax, clear their minds and focus on recovery. This helps improve overall well-being and can even lead to better performance in the long run.

Sleep Benefits

Down related lines, the relaxation and stress relief provided by sports massage can also lead to better sleep quality. Many athletes struggle with getting enough rest due to intense training schedules and the physical toll it takes on their bodies.

Sports massage helps promote relaxation and release of tension, which makes it easier to fall asleep and get a more restful night's sleep. This is crucial for recovery and overall health in athletes.

Possible Increase in Elimination of Lactic Acid

While more research is still needed to fully confirm this benefit, some studies have shown that sports massage may increase the elimination of lactic acid from muscles. This is important because lactic acid build-up can contribute to fatigue and muscle soreness.

By helping flush out these waste products, sports massage may aid in recovery and reduce the negative effects of lactic acid on athletic performance.

Overall, sports massage offers a wide range of benefits for athletes of all kinds. Whether you're a professional or just someone who takes their sport seriously, incorporating regular sports massage into your routine can help improve performance, prevent injury and promote overall well-being.

At Body Balance Massage and Float, we're dedicated to providing the highest quality sports massage and other massage therapy techniques to people around Lehi, Orem, Highland and Saratoga Springs. Contact us today to schedule your next session and experience the benefits for yourself. Keep pushing, keep excelling, and let our team help you take care of your body so it can continue to perform at its best. So why wait? Book your appointment now!

For those who are looking for one of the most effective formats out there for relieving pain, improving muscle health and benefitting connective tissues, deep tissue massage is one of the top massage therapy techniques available. What exactly does this method of massage therapy involve, and why might you consider it for your needs?

At Body Balance Massage and Float, we offer a wide range of massage therapy techniques to patients around Lehi, Orem, Highland, Saratoga Springs and nearby areas, including deep tissue massage from top massage therapists. What is a deep tissue massage, and what are some of the chief benefits it's known for? Here are some basics.

Benefits of Deep Tissue Massage

What is Deep Tissue Massage?

For those who are just learning about deep tissue massage, this technique is a form of massage therapy that targets specific areas of the body to release tension and pain. It uses slow strokes and deeper pressure than traditional massage techniques, which are designed to reach deeper layers of muscle tissue. This pressure stimulates blood flow in the affected areas and helps break down scar tissue and knots.

Unlike some types of massages that mostly focus on relaxation, deep tissue massage primarily focuses on therapeutic benefits. This technique can be beneficial for people with chronic pain or muscle tension, as well as athletes who are recovering from injuries or want to improve their performance.

Beware that during deep tissue massage, you can expect more pressure than other types of massages. However, a good massage therapist will always check in with you to ensure that the pressure is not too intense for your comfort level.

Our next several sections will dig into some of the key benefits of deep tissue massage.

Help With Various Forms of Pain

One of the top reasons people seek out deep tissue massage is for pain relief. This technique has been shown to help with various types of pain, including chronic pain, muscle tension and soreness, and even certain types of headaches. By targeting deep layers of muscles and connective tissues that are often the source of discomfort in these areas, deep tissue massage can provide long-term relief from pain.

Additionally, deep tissue massage can also help with pain associated with conditions like fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis. By increasing blood flow and breaking down scar tissue, this technique can improve range of motion and reduce inflammation in the affected areas.

Improved Muscle Health

In addition to helping with pain relief, deep tissue massage is known for its benefits to muscle health. This technique can help improve range of motion and flexibility by targeting muscles that are tight or knotted. It can also increase blood flow to the affected areas, which helps deliver essential nutrients and oxygen to the muscles for faster healing.

For athletes, deep tissue massage is a popular choice for improving muscle recovery time and preventing future injuries. By breaking down scar tissue and promoting healthy blood flow, this technique can help keep muscles in optimal condition for peak performance.

Flexibility and Range of Motion

Because deep tissue massage targets muscles and connective tissues, it can also have a significant impact on flexibility and range of motion. By breaking down knots and increasing blood flow to these areas, deep tissue massage can help improve mobility in joints and reduce stiffness.

This is especially beneficial for those who suffer from conditions like frozen shoulder or carpal tunnel syndrome. Regular deep tissue massages can help manage symptoms and improve overall mobility.

Postural Improvements

Especially over time, poor posture can lead to a variety of musculoskeletal issues, including neck and back pain. Deep tissue massage can help address these issues by targeting muscles and tissues that are affected by poor posture. By breaking down knots and adhesions in these areas, regular deep tissue massages can help improve overall posture and reduce pain.

Circulation Boost

We've mentioned increased blood flow as a key benefit of deep tissue massage, but it's worth delving into further. By stimulating the circulatory system, this technique can help promote better circulation throughout the body. This means that essential nutrients and oxygen can reach areas that may have been blocked or restricted due to tension and inflammation.

Stress Reduction

For many people, deep tissue massage can also provide significant stress relief. The slow, deliberate strokes and pressure applied during this technique can help induce relaxation and calm the nervous system. This can lower levels of cortisol, which is a hormone associated with stress, and promote feelings of well-being and relaxation.

As you can see, there are many reasons why deep tissue massage is a popular choice for pain relief, muscle health, and overall well-being. At Body Balance Massage and Float, our experienced massage therapists are trained in deep tissue techniques and can help you experience the benefits of this powerful form of massage therapy. Book your appointment today to see how deep tissue massage can benefit you, whether you're in Lehi, Orem, Highland, Saratoga Springs or any nearby area.

There are several common topics that tend to come up among those who prefer massage therapy for any kind of need, and one of these is the necessary frequency of appointments. How often you should get a massage will depend heavily on several specific and personal factors, and locking in a consistent schedule here is often helpful for many people.

At Body Balance Massage and Float, we're here to offer a huge range of massage therapy techniques and services to clients around Lehi, Orem, Highland, Saratoga Springs and nearby areas, including everything from trigger point therapy and warm bamboo massage to sports massage, Swedish massage and more. Here's a look at some of the main factors that should influence your planning on how often to get a massage, all of which our team members are happy to discuss with you further if you have any questions or concerns.

How Often You Should Get a Massage

Primary Reason(s) for Massage

Part of the reason why there are such varying frequencies for massage therapy is the vast range of reasons why people seek it out in the first place. Some may have specific injuries or issues that require more frequent sessions, while others may simply be looking for relaxation and stress relief.

Determining your primary reason(s) for seeking massage therapy can help you determine how frequently you should schedule appointments. For instance, if you have a chronic condition or injury, you may benefit from more frequent sessions to help manage pain and improve range of motion. On the other hand, if your main goal is stress relief, you may only need to schedule an appointment every few weeks or once a month.

General Lifestyle Considerations

Also important to consider are your general lifestyle habits and demands. If you have a physically demanding job or regularly participate in sports or other intense physical activities, then more frequent massages may be necessary to keep your muscles healthy and prevent injuries. Similarly, if you have a more sedentary lifestyle, regular massage therapy can help improve circulation and relieve tension from prolonged sitting or desk work.

Individual Response to Massage

Another important factor is how your body responds to massage therapy. Some individuals may see immediate results and feel the need for frequent sessions, while others may require longer periods of time between appointments.

It's important to pay attention to your body and communicate with your massage therapist about any changes in symptoms or pain levels after each session. This will help determine the ideal frequency for your specific needs.

Long-Term Goals

It's important to consider your long-term goals for massage therapy. Do you want to address a specific injury or chronic pain? Or are you simply looking for general maintenance and relaxation? Depending on your goals, the recommended frequency of appointments may vary.

At Body Balance Massage and Float, our experienced massage therapists will work with you to develop a plan that meets your individual needs and goals. Don't hesitate to reach out to us for guidance on how often you should schedule appointments for optimal results.

Massage Therapist Recommendations

In other cases, it may be beneficial to listen to the recommendations of your massage therapist. They have a wealth of knowledge and experience in understanding how often different individuals may need massage therapy based on their specific conditions or concerns. Trusting their professional advice can help you achieve the best results from each session.

For instance, if you're dealing with a chronic condition, your massage therapist may recommend more frequent sessions to help manage symptoms and improve mobility. Alternatively, if you're solely seeking relaxation, they may suggest less frequent appointments.

Role of Consistency With Massage Therapy

While no one is necessarily saying you have to lock in a precise schedule of massage appointments for years on end, there's certainly something to be said for consistency here. Many people find that scheduling regular massages helps them maintain good health and wellness in a variety of ways.

For some, the physical benefits of consistent massage therapy may include improved range of motion, decreased pain levels, better circulation and more. For others, the mental and emotional benefits may be more prominent - such as reduced stress and anxiety levels, improved sleep quality and more.

Ultimately, the key is to find a frequency that works for you and stick with it. Don't hesitate to communicate with your massage therapist about your needs and goals in order to achieve the best results possible. With consistent appointments, you can reap the many benefits of massage therapy for years to come.

At Body Balance Massage and Float, we're dedicated to helping our clients achieve optimal health and wellness through personalized massage therapy. Contact us today to learn more or schedule your next appointment, whether you're in Lehi, Orem, Highland, Saratoga Springs or any nearby area!

While physical health is naturally of major importance for everyone, the realm of mental health cannot be ignored when considering the entire health picture. There are several treatments or services that are able to focus on both these areas effectively, and float therapy is a great example.

At Body Balance Massage and Float, we're here to offer a wide range of float spa and float therapy services to clients around Lehi, Orem, Highland, Saratoga Springs and nearby areas, these in addition to our caring massage therapy solutions. Why is mental fitness just as important as physical fitness, how can our mental health be thrown off in both minor and major ways, and how does float therapy benefit many people here? Let's have a look.

mental health float therapy

Why Mental Health is So Important

Before we dive into the ways that mental health can be thrown off and float therapy's potential to help, it's first important to emphasize why mental health is so crucial. Mental fitness impacts everything in life from daily mood and productivity levels all the way up to major decisions like career choices or relationships - there's no overstating its importance.

For some people, their mental health may directly affect their physical abilities - for others, it's simply an important part of overall wellness. Regardless, both the mind and body must be taken care of in equal measure to achieve peak health.

Common Causes of Mental Health Issues

There are several potential causes of mental health issues or imbalances, many of which can even originate during childhood or early life. These can include:

How Float Therapy Helps

Float therapy is a unique treatment where clients float in a pod filled with warm saltwater and undergo sensory deprivation. This allows the body to relax deeply and enter a theta brainwave state, which has been shown to have numerous benefits for mental health, including:

When to Consider Float Therapy

When should you consider trying float therapy? The answer is simple: anytime that feels comfortable and beneficial to you. Whether you're experiencing high levels of stress, struggling with mental health issues, or simply looking for a unique way to relax and rejuvenate both body and mind, float therapy may be worth exploring.

There's also no "wrong answer" when it comes to how often you should schedule float therapy sessions. Some people find regular weekly or monthly floats to be incredibly beneficial, while others may only go once in a while when they feel the need for some mental rejuvenation.

Float therapy serves as a unique and effective tool for promoting both physical and mental wellness. To learn more or schedule your own float therapy session, contact us at Body Balance Massage and Float today. We look forward to helping you achieve total mind-body balance, whether you're in Lehi, Orem, Highland, Saratoga Springs or any nearby area.

Many groups of people who exercise regularly are always on the hunt for quality recovery methods, and runners are a great example here. Whether you're a long-distance runner, a sprinter or anything in between, quality recovery methods are vital for maintaining your speed and efficiency without pain or discomfort - and massage therapy is often one of your most effective resources here.

At Body Balance Massage and Float, we're here to offer a wide range of massage therapy techniques to clients around Lehi, Orem, Saratoga Springs, Highland and nearby areas, including sports massage, deep tissue massage and many others. Here are some of the key reasons why massage is often a major benefit to runners as part of their regular training and recovery routine, plus some of the massage techniques that often tend to be best for those with these needs.

massage therapy benefits runners

How Massage Therapy Benefits Runners

There are several specific reasons why runners often benefit from massage therapy as part of their exercise regimen, including the following:

Timing for Massage for Runners

If you've decided that incorporating massage therapy into your regular routine might be beneficial for your running practice, the next question is often when to schedule these appointments. Here are some general recommendations:

Best Massage Techniques for Runners

At Body Balance Massage and Float, we offer several different massage techniques that have shown immense success for runners over the years. These include:

Incorporating regular massage appointments into your running routine can provide immense benefits in terms of improved recovery, reduced pain and discomfort, and increased flexibility and range of motion.

With various techniques to choose from, our team at Body Balance Massage and Float is dedicated to helping runners achieve their goals and maintain a healthy, pain-free body. Book your appointment today and experience the difference massage therapy can make for your running practice. Contact us to learn about any of our massage or float therapy services for clients across Lehi, Orem, Saratoga Springs, Highland and nearby areas.

While massage therapy is best-known among most people for help with things like muscle aches and pain, and with good reason, these are not the full extent of massage's possible benefits or uses - not by a long shot. There are numerous other areas where massage can have a positive impact on patients, and one of these is among those who are having digestive issues.

At Body Balance Massage and Float, we're happy to offer a wide range of massage therapy techniques for patients around Lehi, Orem, Saratoga Springs, Highland and nearby areas, including options like deep tissue and full body massage that are often especially beneficial for digestive issues. Here's a look at the areas of the body and nervous system where massage therapy can provide major benefits for anyone with digestive problems, plus some of the techniques that tend to be best for these needs.

value massage therapy digestion

Parasympathetic Nervous System

One important bodily system to understand with regard to digestion is the parasympathetic nervous system. This is a division of the autonomic nervous system responsible for controlling functions like digestion, which it does in several ways - from increases in salivation to things like peristaltic activities and more. This is in contrast to the sympathetic nervous system, which drives "fight or flight" and is related to stress.

During massage therapy sessions for people struggling with digestion issues, one of the key goals will be to move the body temporarily from a primary reliance on the sympathetic nervous system to the parasympathetic system. This transition can be incredibly beneficial for digestion, which is often thrown off by chronic stress or similar factors.

Muscles and Fascia Around the Digestive System

For those unaware, the human digestive system is comprised of and supported by numerous muscles and pieces of fascia, or connective tissues that surround these muscles. When these areas are tight or tense, it can impede digestive functions - in some cases even leading to chronic conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Massage therapy is an excellent option for loosening and relaxing these muscle groups and fascia areas, helping them properly support digestion once again. It can also relieve common symptoms of digestive issues like bloating or abdominal pain.

Peristalsis Stimulation

Down related lines, massage is often aimed at stimulating peristalsis, the rhythmic movement of muscles in the digestive tract that pushes food and waste through. Massage techniques like myofascial release or trigger point therapy can be especially effective at improving this peristaltic flow, helping the body digest food more efficiently and reducing issues like constipation.

Now that you have a general idea of which key bodily systems or areas play a role in digestion and can be impacted by massage, our next few sections will go over the major massage techniques often used to help address these areas.

Abdominal Massage

For some of the most specific benefits to the digestive system, massage therapists will often use abdominal or stomach massages that target these muscles and fascia areas directly. This can help not only with digestion itself, but also bloating, gas buildup and other issues in this area.

This may include techniques like Swedish massage, which uses light to medium pressure and long, flowing strokes to relax muscles and improve circulation. Massage cupping is another popular option that uses suction cups to help release tension in the abdominal area and improve digestion.

Full Body Massage

While specific techniques targeting the digestive system can be highly beneficial, many patients also find relief from full body massages that address other areas of tension and stress in the body. This is because massage therapy has an overall calming effect on the nervous system, which can indirectly help with digestion by reducing stress levels and promoting relaxation.

This assists directly with the move from the sympathetic to the parasympathetic nervous system, as discussed above. Massage techniques like deep tissue massage are often especially helpful for alleviating tension and stress in this manner.

Deep Tissue Massage

Depending on your specific needs, a deep tissue massage may be the most effective option for promoting digestion. This technique uses slow, firm strokes and deep pressure to target areas of tension and pain in the body. It can help alleviate muscle knots and reduce inflammation, which are two key contributors to digestive issues.

Home Touch or Massage Techniques

In some cases, your massage therapist may recommend certain home touch or self-massage techniques to help maintain the benefits of your massage sessions. These might include gentle abdominal massages or using a foam roller to relieve tension in key areas like the hips and lower back. Regular practice of these techniques can help improve circulation and reduce tension in the body, which can ultimately lead to better digestion over time.

At Body Balance Massage and Float, our experienced therapists can work with you to determine the best massage techniques for your unique needs. Whether you're struggling with chronic digestive issues or have any other pain or discomfort need, we're here to help! Schedule your massage session today and start experiencing the many benefits of massage therapy, whether you're in Lehi, Orem, Saratoga Springs, Highland or any nearby area.

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