Sports Therapy
at Tension Massage is a specialized approach tailored for athletes and active individuals seeking recovery, injury prevention, or performance enhancement. It differs significantly from our relaxation-focused or deep tissue massages through its targeted nature and specific techniques. Let me break it down:
Focus: While other therapies often address general tension or pain relief, sports therapy zeroes in on muscle imbalances, overuse injuries (like runner’s knee or tennis elbow), and areas of strain common to athletic activities. Anthony Cole assesses your movement patterns and injury history to create a personalized plan—it’s not just about feeling good afterward; it’s about optimizing function.
Techniques: We use a blend of manual therapies, including:
- Active Release Techniques (ART): Addresses adhesions in muscle tissue by combining pressure with assisted movements.
- Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF): Restores proper muscle length and strength through specific stretches and contractions.
- Functional Movement Screening: Identifies areas of weakness or imbalance that could lead to injury.
These techniques are evidence-based and often used by physical therapists, but we adapt them for a massage setting. Unlike deep tissue, which can be more generalized, sports therapy is highly targeted—Anthony might spend extra time on one specific muscle group based on your needs.
Benefits: Beyond pain relief, sports therapy aims to:
- Improve range of motion and flexibility
- Enhance athletic performance (e.g., faster recovery between workouts)
- Reduce the risk of future injuries
- Correct postural imbalances that affect movement
Pricing: Sports therapy sessions are typically 60 or 90 minutes ($100-$135), with an initial assessment included to develop a plan. Add-ons like KT taping (for joint support) are available for $20 extra.