Side Effects

As Sports Therapist’s we endeavour to minimise any contra-actions (side-effects) from treatment. In order to help you with this, we would ask that you read through some of the most common ones reported by clients following sports massage treatment

Please note that contra-actions may vary from client to client;

• Localised bruising to the skin
• Muscle soreness
• Feeling tired & Lethargic
• Headaches
• Changes in sleep pattern
• Increase in hunger and thirst
• Feeling emotional or tearful
• Passing water (micturition) or requiring to empty your bowels (Defecating) more frequently
• Allergic reaction to the medium massage medium, if never used before
• Changes in blood pressure (usually reduction, which may cause dizziness& or nausea)
• Increased perspiration
• Erythema (redness to the skin)
• Localised aches & Pains

Most of the above Contra-Actions are usually mild and will subside within 24-48 hours. These are usually caused by a number of factors, such as;

• Massage aids in the flushing of toxins within the Lymphatic system, thus encouraging the body to pass water, excrete etc., which in turn can cause thirst, dehydration leading to headaches & fatigue.
• The relaxing effect of the parasympathetic nervous system on heart rate, blood pressure and the circulatory system, as well as the potential effect of increased blood pooling once the massage stops, could contribute to a head ache. These effects could also be responsible for increased fatigue and changes to sleep patterns.

For this reason, we would ask you to;

• Advise your therapist of any known allergies, medication or medical history which may add to or increase the likely event of the above.
• Record any of the above & report back to your therapist at your next session. (If however you experience severe difficulties contact your therapist who will advise you accordingly).
• Avoid vigorous exercise or training within a gym for 24 hours post maintenance massage (any sessions can further be planned around your workload/exercise regime where possible). Exercise too soon after a Sports Massage can/may cause injury following the realignment of muscle fibres & overstretching of the muscles during treatment.
• Drink plenty of Fluids but avoid alcohol, un-prescribed medication, smoking & any additional unnecessary stimulants, as this can dehydrate the body further, causing further fatigue &/or headaches.