Effect of massage therapy on sports performance

Abstract

The term “massage therapy” encompasses many different techniques (see box for examples). Commonly, therapists press, wipe or also influence the muscles and additional soft tissues of the body. They most often use their hands and fingers, but may use their forearms, elbows, or feet. Technical proof on massage therapy is restricted. Scientists are not yet confident what changes take places in the body during massage, whether they influence health, and, if so and how? Massage therapy appears to have a small number of serious risks if it is used fittingly and provided by a qualified massage professional. Tell your health care providers about any balancing and substitute practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to supervise your health. This will help ensure harmonized and safe care. This fact page provides a common impression of massage therapy and suggests sources for extra information.