So What? The Effectiveness of Massage
Massage can be an effective form of rejuvenation and recovery for athletes. New research has shown that in addition to the positive physiological effects of massage, massage actually effects muscle cells in jumpstarting recovery. “They found that massage reduced the production of compounds called cytokines, which play a critical role in inflammation. Massage also stimulated mitochondria, the tiny powerhouses inside cells that convert glucose into the energy essential for cell function and repair,” (New York Times, http://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/18/health/nutrition/18fitness.html?pagewa...
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Massage is the primary treatment for muscle spasms but it can also be used with other treatments such as rest, stretching, and icing to help athletes recover from numerous injuries involving muscles and/or inflammation. Massage help athletes perform at their best, even after suffering from an injury.
Comments
Massage
Dear Hannah,
I appreciated the information you provided about massages and the benefits its provides for athletes. My mom bought me a massage for Christmas, but I was afraid to use it to close to Swim State because I had heard that you don't want your muscles too relaxed before a performance or event. Maybe you could do some research on the best time to get a massage for an athlete. I would definitely be interested to see what you find.
Thanks for writing,
Lizzie
How effective is massage
How effective is massage compared to other methods? I think that this is very interesting and I know that, as an athlete, I have benefited from the effects of massage. Also, doesn't the use of massage depend on the type of injury and for some injuries it may cause more injury?
Thanks!
Danielle G.
I think that your topic is
I think that your topic is very interesting! I like how you are applying it more to athletes instead of just talking about massage in general. Also, I think it would be interesting if you talked about any personal experience you've had with massage therapy as an athlete (or just as a person who likes massages!)
Hannah, Your topic is pure
Hannah,
Your topic is pure genius. I think that so many people assume massage is just a luxurious spa treatment with shallow benefits, when in reality, research has demonstrated its effectiveness. Sophomore year I had really bad shin splints- massage and icing were really the only ways to alleviate the pain. Thanks for your writing and good luck with the rest of your paper!
Erin
I really enjoy this research topic!
Hannah,
I really enjoy this research topic! I believe that every athlete should get a massage as a way of quick recovery. Did you find that not many athletes today do not get massages after intense games or workouts? I usually never get regular massages because they are difficult to schedule/find time. When push came to shove and I could not play any more soccer, it was time for me to get a massage. I have never felt better and more rejuvenated like I did afterwards.
In your paper, are you going to describe more about cytokines and mitochondria? I can't wait to read more!