Soft Tissue Massage

Soft tissue massage focuses on manipulating muscles, tendons, ligaments and connective tissues through hands-on techniques. Unlike spa-style massage, which often centres on general relaxation, therapeutic soft tissue massage is informed by anatomy and biomechanics. Our physiotherapists assess each patient’s unique presentation; muscle tone, movement patterns, posture and activity level, to design an individualised treatment plan.

A typical session begins with a thorough consultation and physical examination. We observe your posture, test your joints’ range of motion, palpate areas of tension, and identify movement compensations. We then apply carefully chosen techniques such as:

• Deep transverse friction to address focal adhesions
• Effleurage and petrissage to promote circulation and tissue pliability
• Trigger-point release to deactivate specific hyper-irritable spots
• Cross-fibre stretching to help lengthen muscle fibres and improve flexibility

The aim is to work deeply enough to effect change, yet gently enough to avoid undue discomfort. Many patients report temporary achiness post-treatment, which typically resolves quickly and often leads to sustained improvement in stiffness and comfort levels.

Therapeutic soft tissue massage does more than feel pleasant, it stimulates blood and lymph flow, stimulates the peripheral nervous system, accelerates recovery and interrupts patterns of dysfunction. Tight muscles are often the result of the muscle being weak or the body trying to protect a certain area which is injured (muscle spasm). By restoring proper length and tone, we can get your joint moving better and reduce strain on surrounding structures. Over time, this intervention helps break the cycle of tension, pain and protective movement that can hinder performance or everyday activity.

Soft tissue massage rarely stands alone. At Sports & Spines, it's one tool in a wider toolkit. We often combine it with:

• Joint mobilisation to re-establish articular movement
• Strengthening programmes to reinforce your newly liberated muscles
• Stretching routines to maintain tissue flexibility
• Postural and ergonomic advice, especially for office workers

This multi-pronged approach ensures clients experience more than short-term relief, it supports sustained improvements in movement, strength, and injury resilience.

Here’s how a typical treatment unfolds:

1. Initial assessment – We learn about your history, your goals, and your movement restrictions
2. Hands-on work – Targeted to key areas addressing your specific needs
3. Aftercare advice – Self-massage, ice/heat recommendations, and guided exercises
4. Follow-up plan – A schedule combining hands-on therapy with rehab work

Most people notice a greater sense of ease in movement within just a few sessions. As you progress, we adapt to your tissue response and advance your rehab programme.

What sets us apart is our holistic, patient-centred philosophy. We don’t just “do massage” we provide comprehensive physio care. You’ll experience:

• Experienced physiotherapists with advanced training in soft tissue techniques
• Thorough, movement-based assessment to uncover the root causes of problems
• A well balanced mix of expert care and independent self management tools
• A warm, professional environment with a focus on getting you lasting results