Massage involves the kneading, pressing and manipulation of surface muscles, as well as deeper muscles, tendons and ligaments. Most massages involve using the hands to knead muscles, though other techniques are used, and can have great benefits, such as enhancing function, easing tension, increasing joint flexibility and circulation, reducing cramping and helping to relax tired muscles.

Sports massage was originally developed using some of these techniques to help athletes prepare their bodies for ultimate performance and recover after a big event.  Sports massage is similar to regular massage, but is more concentrated on prevention and healing of injuries, as well the areas surrounding joints and tendons. However, you don’t have to be an athlete to benefit from sports massage; it is beneficial for people with chronic pain, injuries or reduced range of motion.

There are different types of sports massage which can be equally useful for experienced athletes or individuals who are new to the levels of exertion required for some sports or exercise. Massages can take place before events, usually half an hour or so, which are short and stimulating, directed at the part of the body most involved in the activity. Massages are also helpful after an exercise session or specific event to normalise body tissues and relax muscles, this is also true of receiving massages before and after any training undertaken to reduce the risk of injury before an important event. If an athlete does suffer an injury, massage is can be used to alleviate pain and help return the body to regular function.

Calcium and magnesium are both present in dairy products and magnesium is also present in fish and seafood. Iodine is also present in seafood and there are high concentrations in kelp and iodised salt. Iron is the most common deficiency in the world, but is available in a wide variety of foods such as eggs, fish, meat, poultry and leafy green vegetables. Ideally if we eat a balanced diet then we should receive all the vitamins and minerals our body needs.