General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Disappointed with massage Rss Feed  
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2009-07-14 10:39 PM

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Subject: Disappointed with massage
I've been having some persistant and annoying shoulder issues all stemming from a rather minor injury months ago.  (Bent over too much when putting a semi-heavy weight down which put all the strain on my shoulders/back instead of my legs where it was supposed to be.)  I haven't had much pain since immediately afterwards, but it gets tight really easily.  After anything that involves frequent use it gets so tight it starts getting in the way of me doing things and it's really uncomfortable. 

I've gotten massages a few different times from different places, and every time I've left totally disappointed.  It helps somewhat to losen it up but I feel like it doesn't accomplish what I need it to.  I usually leave feeling like I still need a massage...like the knot is still there just buried now.  Is there something specific I should be asking for, or a certain type of massage?  I like the idea of a massage and can feel it starting to help, so I'd like to keep trying.  

The only really good one i've had was for free at a hockey tournament that hurt so bad it made me tear up.  But she did more for me in 15 minutes than anyone else has done in an hour!  Oh how I wish she were anywhere close to where I live! 

Suggestions?  Advice?  Anyone?  Thanks!


2009-07-14 11:46 PM
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Subject: RE: Disappointed with massage
Don't spend money on a massage for an injury...

Go to a specialist, osteopath or physio.
2009-07-15 3:02 AM
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Subject: RE: Disappointed with massage
supa-powa - 2009-07-15 2:46 PM Don't spend money on a massage for an injury... Go to a specialist, osteopath or physio.


x2  They will have equipment for breaking up any scar tissue eg infra-red, ultrasound and may be able to do dry-needling to reduce any inflammation.  Also, you'll get exercises to strengthen the muscles, relieve the pain and stop it happening again.  I go to a sports physio centre so see different experts for a running-induced bursitis and a cycling-induced lower back problem.  They have really eased my problems and allowed me to continue training while having remedial treatment.   
2009-07-15 6:14 AM
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Subject: RE: Disappointed with massage
Look for a chiropractor that specializes in ART - Active Release Therapy.  You will love it, it might bring tears to your eyes, it did mine!  And it works.
2009-07-15 6:36 AM
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Subject: RE: Disappointed with massage
wildred - 2009-07-15 7:14 AM Look for a chiropractor ...



You couldn't pay me enough to go to those quacks!  I've been to two different chiropractors.  Both times they made my back worse.

Go see a physical therapist first.  They will TEACH you exercises and stretches to relieve pain, heal, and prevent future episodes.
2009-07-15 7:06 AM
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Subject: RE: Disappointed with massage

Having a wife that is a MT, I can say that a good massage therapist will not massage you if you're injured.  Massage will not help an injury.

BUT, if you have a knot or soreness, etc it will most likely not go away in one session.  Case in point, I have knots in my traps from being in Aero all the time.  It takes about 3 hour long sessions to get rid of them.  If I just expected them to be gone after the first massage, I too would have been dissapointed.  And that is with a deep tissue massage that almost brought me to tears.

When you go to an MT, make sure you are getting a sports massage aka 'deep tissue'.  Some MT's go deeper than others.  If you are not uncomfortable (as in having to breath to not cry) during the session they didn't go deep enough.  That's just my opinion.

And I LOVE my Chiropracter.  Like all things, take the good with the bad.



2009-07-15 7:20 AM
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Subject: RE: Disappointed with massage
JC5066 - 2009-07-15 7:36 AM
wildred - 2009-07-15 7:14 AM Look for a chiropractor ...



You couldn't pay me enough to go to those quacks!  I've been to two different chiropractors.  Both times they made my back worse.

Go see a physical therapist first.  They will TEACH you exercises and stretches to relieve pain, heal, and prevent future episodes.


WOW, sorry you feel this way.  I do know that there are "quacks" out there but with research, I have been fortunate enough to have 2 really good docs.  I would not have been able to do my first tri without the A.R.T done on my shoulder.  I also agree with deep tissue massage, it will be uncomfortable but it works.
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