Why every runner should be getting a remedial massage

What is remedial massage? And how is it different to any other massage?

Remedial massage is used to assist in rehabilitation, pain and injury management¹ and while it can be unwinding for some, it goes well beyond relaxation. Unlike other forms of massage , remedial massage therapists use a variety of hands-on and evidence-based techniques such as deep tissue work, trigger point therapy, myofascial release and often dry needling to help keep you feeling your best. 

Additionally, a remedial massage is performed by professionals with formal training in anatomy, physiology and musculoskeletal assessment which makes it far more targeted than a regular massage. It’s designed to find and treat the source of your discomfort. That’s where the “remedy” part comes in.

 

As you gear up for your next run, looking after your body is just as important as logging kilometres. Remedial massage isn't just a luxury - it’s a performance and recovery tool. It helps to optimise muscle function, improve mobility and reduce injury risk. It also supports circulation, reduces muscle soreness and assists your body to recover more efficiently.” - Madeleine Phillips, HBF Physio Massage Clinical Education Coordinator

Remedial massage therapy can help reduce pain across a range of musculoskeletal conditions which for running enthusiasts, often translates into relief from those hard-fought niggles like:

• Lower, mid and upper back pain
• Tight calves and hamstrings
• Sore quads
• Hip pain
• Anxiety, stress and fatigue
• General body soreness

It can improve your mobility

When your muscles are tight, your running form changes, but with targeted, hands-on techniques, remedial massage can help release tension, improve blood circulation² and help your body move the way it’s meant to. When you’re more mobile, running feels smoother and dare we say it, maybe even a little easier?

It supports recovery and reduces post run soreness

Research also shows that remedial massage is beneficial in reducing delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) and enhancing recovery after strenuous exercise³ so if you’re training for an event, it can be the difference between hitting the pavement feeling amazing or dragging your legs your next run.

It can be great for relieving stress

Stress and poor sleep can affect how well you train and perform, which is why remedial massage can play such a big role in keeping your body (and mind) feeling its best.

During a remedial massage, your body is boosted feel good chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine⁴, which can help you feel calmer and more at ease. And if your anxiety is linked to ongoing muscle or joint pain, it can also support your mental wellbeing in a really meaningful way.⁴

If you’re feeling nervous or anxious leading up to race day, the rhythmic pressure of a remedial massage can help bring your attention back into your body and the present moment so you can step into your next run with a little more ease.

It’s tailored to your body and your needs

HBF Physio remedial massage therapists shape every session around what your body needs most. Before your remedial massage, they will ask you about the reason for your appointment, your current health and lifestyle habits and any medical problems or health conditions to ensure the techniques and type of massage they provide are most appropriate for you.

Whether it’s tight calves, sore glutes or tension through your shoulders, they’ll zero in on the areas holding you back and build a treatment plan and recommendation for any future sessions that supports your training load and program. Because when your body’s happy, your running feels a whole lot happier too.

Nothing derails training faster than tightness or an aggravating niggle, so your next great run might just start on the massage table. Book your remedial massage at HBF Physio today. 

No matter your health fund, everyone is welcome. Your body will thank you!

Book now