An effective maintenance program is based on the massage therapist's understanding of anatomy and kinesiology, combined with an expert knowledge of which muscles are used in a given sport and which are likely candidates for trouble. By zeroing in on particular muscle groups and working specific tissues, the sports massage therapist helps the athlete maintain or improve range of motion and muscle flexibility. The overall objective of a maintenance program is to help the athlete reach optimal performance through injury-free training. It also improves tissue pliability, readying the athlete for top performance. Various sports massage techniques enhance the body s own recovery process, improving the athlete s return to high-level training and competition, and reducing the risk of injury.
Sports massage can speed healing and reduce discomfort during the rehabilitation process.
Soft tissue techniques employed by sports massage therapists are effective in the management of both acute and chronic injuries. In all cases, such massage techniques are employed in collaboration with other appropriate medical care. For example, encouraging circulation around a bruise, but not directly on it, through the use of compression, cross-fiber techniques or even long, deep strokes is only used after appropriate medical referral and diagnostics indicate that there are no clots formed in the area which may embolize. Members of the AMTA NSMT are trained to perform the highest level of sports massage therapy techniques, while working cooperatively with healthcare professionals such as physicians, athletic trainers, physical therapists, chiropractors, nurses, and others. Through a well-established protocol, Team members work cohesively with other medical staff at sporting events to provide optimum, comprehensive healthcare services for athletes.