The Power of Percussive Massage: A Closer Look
Percussive therapy, often known as percussive massage, isn't just another fad in the wellness world; it's a game-changer with a host of benefits. Beyond its rapid, forceful strokes and variable pressures, this technique is versatile, making it an invaluable tool for both athletes and everyday folks. Let's dig deeper into the incredible advantages it brings.
We’re proud to present the thoughts and ideas from our newest RMT, Aspen Hawkins, in clinic. This blog is inspired by her and expanded by Miranda Horvath, Strive Holistic Massage clinic owner.
Fascial Freedom:
As time goes by, the fascia around our muscles and joints can get tight and restrictive for various reasons—like doing the same motions repeatedly, sitting too much, or performing a work out continuously with a muscle imbalance that’s present (and maybe we don’t know about it!). The result? Pain, discomfort, and limited mobility. This can lead to chronic pain which is a drain on your body, and especially on your mental health. Percussive massage breaks down these fascial restrictions, making the tissue more flexible, helping you feel more free with your body’s movement pattern. This means you can move easier and without pain, reclaiming your natural mobility and living pain free, without the distraction of chronic pain.
Post-Operative Healing:
Percussion massage isn't just for athletes; it's a boon for anyone on the path to recovery. After surgery, your body may develop muscle adhesions and scar tissue, slowing down the healing process. Percussive therapy steps in to break down these barriers and promote healthy circulation and nutrient exchange in your tissues. So, if you're recovering from surgery, consider percussive therapy as your trusted ally.
A Pre-Performance Boost:
Athletes often turn to percussive techniques to wake up their muscles and joints before training or competitions. This pre-performance ritual gets your body ready for action, boosting flexibility and responsiveness. It's also great for reducing that post-exercise muscle soreness we all know and dislike. Recent research even shows that vibration therapy, like percussive massage, after exercise improves blood flow and reduces muscle soreness. For me, a proper warm-up and cool-down routine have been essential to prevent injuries.
Aspen’s Journey with Percussive Techniques:
Before Aspen started her massage therapy program at MacEwan, she wasn't familiar with percussive techniques. She’d had a few therapeutic and recovery massages, but none of them included percussion. However, when she was introduced to this technique, she was amazed by the significant effects it had on both herself and others. The adaptability of percussive therapy, whether it's part of your warm-up, cool-down, or a dedicated massage session, is truly impressive.
In conclusion, percussive massage isn't a passing trend; it's a wellness powerhouse that is underrated and can be easily performed at home with the right tool. Whether you're an athlete looking to boost your performance, someone recovering from surgery, or just seeking to unlock your body's potential, percussive therapy is a versatile and relatively safe solution. It's proof that wellness is evolving, where science and tradition meet to deliver a range of benefits. So, if you're ready to enhance your warm-ups, cool-downs, and massage sessions, consider percussive therapy as your gateway to a more agile, pain-free, and resilient you! 💪🩹🏃♂️
Want to hear more from Aspen? Book with her for an expert assessment and deep tissue treatment at our local downtown Edmonton massage therapy business by clicking to our booking page here. We’re located out of Evolve Strength Downtown and have a diverse set of offerings to suit any type of pain you may be experiencing. Check us out today!
