3 Major Types of Massage Therapies for Sprained Ankles

Sprained ankles can cause long lasting pain. It hurts like hell, when the sole of the foot turns inwards accidentally. You might note need a surgery for the same. However, sprays and pain killers won’t help in the long run to get rid of the pain.

What helps in these cases is a good massage therapy! Expert movements of the therapists on the sprained area can cause heat within the injured area and can relief you from the pain to some extent.

Got a sprained ankle? Visit the nearest physiotherapy centre for massage therapy in Savanna Calgary and get your ankle muscles relaxed.

If your doctor is following any of the 3 below-mentioned massage therapies for the ankles, then you’re heading towards the right direction.

Circular frictions

Within 3 days from the occurrence of the injury, even without the help of the therapist you can start applying this therapy. Don’t forget to follow the principle of RICE (rest, ice, compression and elevation) at the first instance, just when the accident occurs. Then, after 3 days if you visit the therapist you’ll find them applying circular frictions on the affected area.

How does that work? Very simple. With light pressure of the fingers, small circular frictions will be applied on the joint to reduce the swelling. No oil, no medicine – only hand movements will reduce the initial stiffness immediately.

Cross friction

Once you’ve got rid of the acute pain and can touch the ankle, the therapist will start with the cross friction massage. Depending on the tissue that has been damaged, the cross friction process involves stretching back of the ankle ligaments towards the inside to prevent the tissues from getting stiff.

Cautionary warning: It can be painful, and may seem highly painful since you’re already in pain. But, don’t tighten up the muscles or flinch too much, then the therapist will not be able to do it properly and there will be no benefits.

Calf massage

This is required in the advanced stage. This is not directly beneficial for the ankle sprains, but it will certainly loosen up the leg muscles. In the calf massage, the therapist focuses on massaging the lower part of the leg. When you’re unable to walk properly or move your legs for months, then it’s possible that lumps and knots start forming in your leg.

So, this technique ensures that when your ankle gets alright, your legs should be still in proper functioning position.

Types of Massage Therapy: Which One is Right for You?

Do you know massage is one of the oldest healing traditions? Ancient communities, including Egyptians, Chinese, Greeks, and Indians, were convinced that massage is used to treat various ailments.

Massage Therapy encompasses several types of techniques. A therapist uses their hands, fingers, elbows, forearms, or feet, manipulating the body’s soft tissues – muscles, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissues. Studies have found that massage therapy can reduce stress, alleviate pain, muscle tension, increase relaxation, and boost immune function.

Are you experiencing muscle tension and ready for a massage? Swedish or deep tissue? Learn different types of massages and their health benefits:

  • Swedish Massage – Are you new to massage? Do you have a lot of tension? Are you sensitive to touch? Don’t worry! Swedish massage is a gentle full-body massage that can help release muscle knots and is also the right choice when you want to relax fully. Swedish massage uses different kind of strokes combined with the movement of joints helping in relieving tension.
  • Aromatherapy Massage – It is practiced by ancient cultures for centuries. Aromatherapy massage uses scented oils extracted from flowers and other plant parts. It is one of the best massages for those experiencing lower back pain, stress and anxiety, and menopause. This technique is much more effective than regular massage.
  • Sports Massage – Athletes need to stay tip-toed. A sports massage therapy is for athletes of all levels and is designed to prevent and treat injuries, enhance performance, and improve flexibility. This massage can help with blood flow and improve recovery time. Sports massage is an excellent option for players experiencing injuries from repetitive muscle use.
  • Shiatsu Massage – The Japanese type of massage is best for individuals who want to feel relaxed and relieve stress, pain, and tension. Shiatsu massage promotes emotional and physical relaxation, reducing anxiety and depression, headaches, and muscle tension. A well-trained massage therapist uses their hands, palms, and thumbs to massage particular points of the body. Studies show that shiatsu can help ease blockages at acupressure points.

The benefits of massage therapy are quite remarkable. Whether it’s a sore muscle or you want to improve your sleep, Massage therapy in Calgary will help you feel more relaxed and happy.