What is the difference between sports massage and physiotherapy?

If you have ever had an ache or injury, chances are someone has suggested to get a massage or see a physiotherapist. Understanding the difference can be helpful in choosing the right treatment for your body and goals.

Sports massage is a targeted form of massage that’s very popular with athletes – but you don’t have to be one to experience the benefits. It is a specialised approach designed to target specific muscles and movements. Depending on your needs, we use a range of techniques to help promote circulation, release tight muscles, improve flexibility and overall performance. So, whether you’re recovering from a workout, preparing for a big event or dealing with nagging knots a sports massage can help.

Physiotherapy or ‘physio’ focuses on the complete musculoskeletal system and nervous system – its more than just muscles. The main goals are to restore movement and function after an injury, to rehab patients after surgery and to help manage chronic conditions. Initial assessments provide us with the information to help identify the root cause of your pain or dysfunction – not just to treat the symptoms. For example, persistent knee pain may stem from weak hip muscles or poor foot alignment. Based on the assessment, we design a tailored treatment plan which often include some hands on treatments like joint mobilisations as well as targeted exercises that you can carry out at home or in a gym. We help educate you on your condition and advise you on any lifestyle changes to help support your recovery.

If you’re looking to recover from an injury, reduce chronic pain or improve movement, physiotherapy is the way to go. If you want to stay supple, prevent tightness or recover from intense physical activity then sports massage is a great treatment.

Book in online or call (01752) 656340, to speak to a member of our team if you have any further questions.