The Benefits of Massage for Golfers
There are many benefits of therapeutic massage for golfers. Contrary to what many believe, golf is a sport that is physically demanding. Developing an effective golf swing requires flexibility, stability, strength, repetitive practice, and athleticism. The goal is to create a powerful, concise, and explosive swing. Like other sports requiring a degree of athleticism, golfers need special care provided through physiotherapy and massage.
This movement is a recipe for soreness and the possibility of injuries. These repeated movements can lead to lower back pain, rotator cuff injuries, generalized shoulder pain, and tennis elbow. The remedy for the pain and soreness, along with improved performance, is massage, amongst other practices.
Here at Core Therapeutics Physiotherapy in Mississauga, we offer a range of massage therapy for golfers. We concentrate on relaxing the hamstrings, back, hips, shoulders, forearms, wrists, neck, and overall flexibility. Many patients report a decrease in pain and an overall improvement in their golf technique. Greater flexibility is generated through the combination of stretching and massage therapy, improving the golfer’s range of motion while remaining pain-free!
Aside from the improved range of motion, other benefits of massage for golfers include the following:
- Decreased stress/anxiety
- Improved mental focus
- Improved circulation
- Reduced spasms and adhesions
- Increased strength
- Reduced injuries
Golfers experience the most benefit from a deep tissue or sports massage, during which a massage therapist will manipulate fascia (the connective tissue that binds muscles, organs, bones, nerves, and blood vessels) to restore balance within the body. Massage will also increase blood flow to promote muscle recovery, reduce tension, and loosen up adhesions, all of which help golfers recover from injuries and prevent future injuries. Remaining in optimal physical shape is healthy for your mind and body.
How Often Should You Get a Massage?
Some professionals recommend that golfers get a deep-tissue massage at least 48 hours before tee time, as golfers (as do most athletes) discover that they feel sore or can’t use their muscles optimally if they try to play immediately after a massage. Otherwise, massage scheduling depends on many factors. Injuries, strains, schedules, and personal responsibilities determine how accessible massage therapy will be for you. Discovering a treatment plan that works best for your circumstances is something we work hard at maintaining.
Exercise Will Help To Perfect Your Form
In addition to massage, exercising to develop the upper body and working on improving form may help beginner golfers avoid some severe injuries. Enhancing your strength will ensure your golf game continues to improve over time. Still, that one thing that can benefit golfers of all levels is getting regular massages.
If golf is on your list of activities for the year, make sure you reach out to one of our team specialists at Core Therapeutics Physiotherapy to explore how we can best serve you. Whether you are a beginner or a professional at heart, our team will ensure you have a safe and enjoyable golf season.
We look forward to hearing from you because, as you can see, massage has countless benefits for golfers.