Massage | LiveWell Health

Supporting The British Heart Foundation – Manchester Marathon

Posted on April 28, 2024

Participating in the Manchester Marathon to support the British Heart Foundation (BHF) was an incredibly rewarding experience for our team. As advocates for health and well-being, we were honoured to provide post-event massage (sports massage) services to the dedicated runners who took on the challenge in support of heart health.

With a team of skilled sports therapists ready to lend a helping hand, we were able to offer much-needed recovery and support to the participants who had just completed the 26.2-mile race through the vibrant streets of Manchester. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement and determination as runners crossed the finish line, and our manchester team was there to provide a comforting touch and expert care to help them recover and rejuvenate after their incredible achievement.

For years, we have been proud supporters of the British Heart Foundation and its mission to promote heart health and fund life-saving research. The Manchester Marathon provided us with an opportunity to directly contribute to this important cause and make a positive impact on the lives of those affected by heart disease.
As runners approached our recovery zone where we were providing the much needed sports massage, weary but triumphant, our team greeted them with smiles and encouragement. We listened to their stories of triumph and perseverance, offering a sympathetic ear and a healing touch to soothe tired muscles and alleviate post-race aches and pains.

The sense of camaraderie and community at the Manchester Marathon was palpable, with runners, supporters, and volunteers coming together to celebrate the achievements of the participants and raise awareness for heart health. It was inspiring to see individuals of all ages and backgrounds unite in support of a common cause, fueled by a shared passion for making a difference.

Marvin doing Post Event Sports Massage at the Manchester Event with British Heart Foundation

As the day progressed and the last of the runners crossed the finish line, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride and gratitude for being a part of such a meaningful event. The Manchester Marathon with the British Heart Foundation is more than just a race; it’s a powerful symbol of hope, resilience, and the unwavering commitment to promoting heart health and saving lives.

As we packed up our massage tables and reflected on the day’s events, we were reminded of the importance of supporting organisations like the British Heart Foundation in their mission to fight heart disease and improve cardiovascular health. Our partnership with the BHF has allowed us to directly impact the lives of those affected by heart disease, and we are committed to continuing our support in the years to come.

If you’re organising an event and are in need of on-site event massage or recovery services, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team are dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to participants and with our latest venture, LIVE|Recover, we ensure they have the best possible experience before, during, and after their event. Together, we can make a difference and support worthy causes like the British Heart Foundation in their mission to promote heart health and save lives.

For further information, please contact a member of our team today and we will be only too happy to help!

Marvin and Amad at the Manchester Marathon doing Sports Massage

Making A Difference At The London Marathon

Posted on April 23, 2024

On Sunday 21st April 2024, our team attended the London Marathon at the request of Pancreatic Cancer to provide much needed event massage services to their dedicated runners, we have worked with this lovely charity for the last 3 years and is always a highlight of our year. This year was no exception as we had the privilege of providing on-site post-event sports massage, sports therapy, and physiotherapy services to the incredible participants who crossed the finish line in support of this important cause.

The livewell sports therapy team providing post event massage at the London Marathon

As part of our commitment to supporting charitable organisations and promoting health and well-being in our community, we proudly offered our expertise to Pancreatic Cancer and its runners. With a team of 10 skilled sports therapists on hand, we were able to provide much-needed recovery and support to the marathon participants who had just completed the gruelling 26.2-mile race.

Our team has been attending the London Marathon to support Pancreatic Cancer for several years now, and each year brings new experiences and opportunities to make a difference. From providing post-race massages to offering guidance and support to runners recovering from injuries, we were honoured to play a role in helping them achieve their goals and overcome challenges.

A sports therapist performing a sports massage

The atmosphere at the London Marathon is always electric, with thousands of spectators cheering on the runners as they make their way through the iconic streets of London. As our team worked tirelessly to provide post-event care to the participants, we were inspired by their determination, resilience, and unwavering commitment to making a difference in the fight against pancreatic cancer.

Despite the physical and mental challenges that come with running a marathon, the runners we had the pleasure of working with were in high spirits and grateful for the support they received. It was incredibly rewarding to see the smiles on their faces as they received a well-deserved massage or a few words of encouragement from our team.

As the day came to a close and the last of the runners crossed the finish line, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride and fulfilment knowing that we had played a small part in their journey. The London Marathon for Pancreatic Cancer is not just a race; it’s a symbol of hope, resilience, and the power of community coming together to make a difference.

Hannah doing post event massage for a runner

As we reflect on our amazing experience at the London Marathon, we are reminded of the importance of supporting charitable causes and giving back to those in need. We are grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such a meaningful event and look forward to continuing our partnership with Pancreatic Cancer in the years to come.

If you’re organising an event and are in need of on-site event massage or recovery services, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to participants, ensuring they have the best possible experience before, during, and after their event. Together, we can make a difference and support worthy causes like Pancreatic Cancer in their mission to raise awareness and find a cure.

What Is Lymphatic Drainage?

Posted on March 8, 2024

In order to understand Lymphatic Drainage Massage it is first important to understand what the Lymphatic System is.

The Lymphatic System explained

The lymphatic system is a complex network of vessels, nodes, and organs that play a crucial role in the body’s immune defence, fluid balance, and waste removal. Here’s a more detailed explanation of its anatomy and function:

Lymphatic Vessels: Similar to blood vessels, lymphatic vessels form a network throughout the body, running parallel to blood vessels. These vessels collect excess fluid, proteins, and waste products from the interstitial spaces between cells.

Interstitial Fluid and Lymph: Interstitial fluid is the fluid that surrounds cells in tissues. As blood circulates through capillaries, it releases nutrients and oxygen into the tissues while picking up waste products. Some of this fluid remains in the tissues and is collected by lymphatic vessels as lymph. Lymph is a clear, colourless fluid that flows through the lymphatic system.

Lymph Nodes: Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures located along the lymphatic vessels. They act as filtration stations, where lymph is filtered to remove pathogens, foreign particles, and dead cells. Lymph nodes also contain immune cells, such as lymphocytes, which help to fight infections.

Lymphatic Organs: In addition to lymph nodes, the lymphatic system includes other organs, such as the spleen, thymus, and tonsils. These organs play various roles in immune function, including the production and maturation of immune cells.

Lymphatic Circulation: Unlike the circulatory system, which relies on the pumping action of the heart, lymphatic circulation is driven primarily by muscle contractions and movements of the body. Skeletal muscle contractions, breathing, and physical activity help to propel lymph through the lymphatic vessels.

Immune Response: The lymphatic system is closely intertwined with the body’s immune response. When pathogens, such as bacteria or viruses, enter the body, they are engulfed by immune cells within the lymph nodes. This triggers an immune response, leading to the production of antibodies and activation of other immune cells to combat the infection.

Fluid Balance: The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance within the body. By removing excess fluid from tissues, it helps to prevent swelling (edema) and maintains normal blood volume and pressure.

Overall, the lymphatic system serves as a vital component of the body’s defence against infection, as well as playing a key role in maintaining tissue health and fluid balance. Dysfunction of the lymphatic system can lead to conditions such as lymphedema, immune deficiencies, and impaired wound healing.

So how can Lymphatic Drainage Massage help?

Lymphatic drainage is a therapeutic massage technique designed to stimulate the flow of lymphatic fluid throughout the body. The lymphatic system is a vital part of the body’s immune system, responsible for removing waste, toxins, and excess fluid from tissues and transporting white blood cells to areas of infection or inflammation.

During lymphatic drainage massage, gentle, rhythmic movements are applied to specific areas of the body, typically starting from the extremities and working towards the heart. This helps to encourage the natural circulation of lymphatic fluid, aiding in the removal of toxins and waste products, reducing swelling or edema, and promoting overall immune function.

Lymphatic drainage massage is often used as a therapeutic technique for various conditions, including lymphedema (swelling due to lymph fluid buildup), post-surgical recovery (such as after liposuction or mastectomy), detoxification, and immune system support. It is generally considered safe when performed by a trained and qualified therapist and can provide a range of benefits for overall health and well-being.

If you are interested in seeing how Lymphatic Drainage Massage can help you then our team of highly qualified professionals can help. For further information, please visit our Lymphatic Drainage Massage page or alternatively contact us directly or visit our online booking system to make an appointment.

Sports Massage – Easing Muscular Discomfort And Tension

Posted on March 7, 2024

In the realm of physical activity and athletic performance, the body endures tremendous strain and stress, often resulting in muscular discomfort and tension. Whether you’re an elite athlete pushing the boundaries of human performance or a weekend warrior striving for personal fitness goals, the rigours of physical exertion can take a toll on your body. Enter sports massage – a modality renowned for its ability to soothe aching muscles, alleviate tension, and enhance overall well-being.

Understanding Sports Massage:

Sports massage is a specialised form of massage therapy designed to address the unique needs of athletes and active individuals. Unlike traditional relaxation massage, which focuses primarily on promoting relaxation and stress relief, sports massage targets specific muscles and soft tissues affected by repetitive movements, overuse, or injury. By employing a combination of techniques such as deep tissue massage, myofascial release, and stretching, sports massage aims to restore balance, flexibility, and function to the body.

Benefits of Sports Massage:

The benefits of sports massage are manifold and extend far beyond mere relaxation. Here are some of the key advantages:

Pain Relief: Sports massage can provide relief from muscular discomfort, tension, and pain by releasing knots, adhesions, and trigger points within the muscles. This can help alleviate symptoms of conditions such as muscle strains, sprains, and overuse injuries.
Improved Flexibility and Range of Motion: By targeting tight muscles and fascia, sports massage can enhance flexibility and range of motion, allowing for greater ease of movement and reduced risk of injury during physical activity.
Enhanced Recovery: Sports massage promotes circulation and lymphatic drainage, facilitating the removal of metabolic waste products and toxins from the muscles. This accelerates the body’s natural healing processes, reducing recovery time between workouts and competitions.
Prevention of Injuries: Regular sports massage can help identify and address muscular imbalances, postural issues, and movement dysfunctions that may predispose individuals to injury. By correcting these underlying issues, sports massage can help prevent injuries before they occur.
Stress Reduction: In addition to its physical benefits, sports massage can also have a positive impact on mental and emotional well-being. The relaxation response elicited by massage can help reduce stress, anxiety, and tension, promoting a sense of calm and overall relaxation.

Why Choose Sports Massage:

For athletes and active individuals seeking to optimise their performance, prevent injuries, and maintain overall health and well-being, sports massage is an invaluable tool. By addressing the specific needs of the body, sports massage can help individuals overcome muscular discomfort, enhance recovery, and achieve peak performance in their chosen sport or activity.

In conclusion, sports massage offers a multifaceted approach to addressing muscular discomfort and tension, providing relief, promoting recovery, and enhancing overall well-being. Whether you’re a professional athlete preparing for competition or a recreational enthusiast striving for personal fitness goals, sports massage can help you perform at your best and feel your best, both on and off the field.

If you are interested in sports massage, then please contact our team or make a sports massage booking.

DOMS And How Massage Can Help

Posted on March 6, 2024

What is DOMS?

Delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) describes muscle pain and tenderness that typically develops several hours post-exercise and consists of predominantly eccentric muscle actions, especially if the exercise is unfamiliar. Although DOMS is likely a symptom of eccentric-exercise–induced muscle damage, it does not necessarily reflect muscle damage. Some prophylactic or therapeutic modalities may be effective only for alleviating DOMS, whereas others may enhance recovery of muscle function without affecting DOMS.

What are the benefits of massage to help with DOMS?

As we all know, massage helps in a number of ways to flush out a range of toxins and hormones from arteries, veins and lymph system, which your body produces to help it understand when you need to slow down or stop when it comes to exercise.

These toxins and hormones are is a good thing during exercise; they help you understand when you need to give your muscles a break so you don’t strain them or injure a tendon or ligament.

However, post-exercise this can be an annoying effect of your training and can hinder your goals and plans.

There is a solution and it comes in the form of a qualified massage therapist. If you were to arrange a massage post-exercise, this could really help eliminate DOMS all-together or at least speed up your recovery and limit the DOMS effect substantially so you can continue with your training plans the next day.

Sports Massage helps not just to flush your system of these painful and limiting toxins but it also helps lengthen your tight muscles to a normal range and remove any adhesions and trigger points that may have built up over the time you have been training.

To find out more about how this can help and to put a plan in place contact one of our sports massage therapists today and we can give you some free help and advice on this and other sport related issues.

Our therapists are based in many towns and cities in the UK. Some of the areas we cover are Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Gloucester, Hereford, Wolverhampton, Leicester, Derby and Nottingham, offering a mobile and clinic based service, so no matter how much pain you are in with your DOMS, we can help!

For more information please contact a member of our team.

Why Do We Get Injured?

Posted on January 24, 2024

Why do we get injured?

Injuries, whether they occur at home, in the workplace, or during physical activities, can result from a variety of factors. Addressing these diverse causes requires a comprehensive understanding of the contributing elements. This article delves into the reasons behind injuries, incorporating statistics and detailed insights into injury prevention strategies.

Common Causes of Injuries:

Accidents Everywhere: Accidents have a broad reach, occurring in various settings, including homes, workplaces, and during sports or physical activities. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), unintentional injuries account for over 3.9 million deaths globally each year, making them a significant public health concern.
Overuse Injuries and Sporting Activities: Overuse injuries, frequently associated with sports and physical activities, result from repetitive motions causing damage to muscles, tendons, or joints. A study recently published in the Journal of Sports Medicine found that overuse injuries account for approximately 50% of all sports-related injuries. Proper equipment, personalised advice from experts, and robust recovery programs, including massage and physiotherapy, play pivotal roles in preventing such injuries.
Posture and Body Mechanics: Poor posture and improper body mechanics contribute to increased stress on muscles and joints, leading to long-term injuries. The American Chiropractic Association reports that poor posture is a significant factor in chronic musculoskeletal conditions, affecting a large portion of the population.
Ageing and Micro-Level Changes: Aging brings about changes in bones and muscles, rendering them weaker and more susceptible to injuries. Additionally, micro-level changes such as hormonal fluctuations and vitamin deficiencies become pertinent factors. Livewell Health’s health checks, involving blood testing, allergy testing and food intolreance testing and comprehensive assessments, offer insights into these micro-level changes, facilitating proactive injury prevention.
Chronic Conditions: Chronic conditions like arthritis and osteoporosis heighten the risk of injuries. Arthritis alone affects a huge portion of the UK population, making them prone to joint-related injuries.
Environmental Factors: Environmental factors, including slippery surfaces, poor lighting, and hazardous working conditions, significantly contribute to injury risks. Workplace slips, trips, and falls account for a substantial number of injuries, with over 30% of reported injuries being fall-related.

The Significance of Injury Prevention:

Protective Gear and Physical Fitness: Preventing injuries involves adopting proactive measures, such as wearing appropriate protective gear.
Timely Medical Attention and Rehabilitation: In the event of an injury, prompt medical attention and adherence to appropriate treatment and rehabilitation protocols are crucial.
Preventative measures: Preventative measures also extend past standard medical and rehabilitation avenues which can be things such as Yoga, Pilates, a robust stretching program, strength and conditioning, dynamic exercise program, massage and other complimentary services to keep your body and mind in tip top form.

Conclusion: Understanding the multifaceted nature of injuries is imperative in developing effective prevention strategies. By acknowledging the diverse causes, ranging from accidents and overuse injuries to ageing and environmental factors, individuals and organisations can take informed steps toward injury prevention. Livewell Health’s commitment to health checks, tailored advice, and holistic wellbeing emphasises the importance of proactive measures, ensuring a healthier and more resilient future for individuals and communities alike.

If you want to know more about correct exercise techniques or would like professional advice from one of our personal trainers then please get in touch then we can help there too with our specialist sports massage service. For more information on how these types of massage could help you, contact us on 07939 212 739 or drop us an email at info@livewellhealth.co.uk

How serious can stress be?

Posted on January 24, 2024

Unveiling the Hidden Benefits of Massage Therapy: A Comprehensive Guide to Physical and Mental Wellbeing

Stress has been a secret killer for many years. In today’s world we are told to just “deal with it” or “Stop whining” but stress can be a serious factor in not just mental concerns but musculoskeletal issues. Massage therapy has long been recognized for its efficacy in addressing physical discomfort. However, the impact of massages extends far beyond the realm of soft tissue recovery. In this article, we’ll explore the often-overlooked mental health benefits of various massage types, shedding light on the crucial role they play in stress relief, overall wellbeing, and disease prevention.

Stress has become an omnipresent force in modern life, affecting individuals both mentally and physically. While it is a normal response to challenges, chronic stress poses a significant risk to overall health. Understanding the intricate connection between stress and its impact on the body is essential in appreciating the value of massage therapy.

Stress’s Toll on Health:

Persistent stress has been linked to an increased risk of chronic diseases. Research indicates that ongoing stress can elevate the chances of cardiovascular diseases and digestive problems by 60%. Moreover, it accelerates the ageing process and compromises immune system functionality. The need to combat stress before it takes a toll on day-to-day life is paramount.

Massage as a Stress Buster:

Massage therapy emerges as a powerful tool in the battle against stress. Beyond its physical benefits, massages induce a state of relaxation that helps alleviate anxiety, reduce built-up tension, and contribute to an overall sense of calm. By addressing stress proactively, individuals can mitigate the risk of associated health issues.

Understanding the Benefits of Massage Therapy:

Massage therapy, when integrated into practices like remedial and Swedish massage, offers a holistic approach to physical and mental wellbeing.

Relief from Aches and Pains:

The primary role of massage therapy is to alleviate the physical discomfort associated with everyday life. Whether it’s tight or sore muscles, massages help improve flexibility, range of motion, and blood circulation. This relief from physical tension directly contributes to stress reduction.

Stress Reduction through Breathing and Pain Relief:

Specialised massage techniques, such as those employed in remedial massages, facilitate slower breathing and targeted pain relief. This combination plays a pivotal role in calming the mind and relaxing the entire body. The result is a rejuvenated and refreshed state, enabling individuals to tackle daily activities with a clearer mindset.

LiveWell Health: Bridging the Gap to Wellbeing

LiveWell Health recognizes the interconnectedness of physical and mental health and offers a diverse range of massage techniques to address various health aspects.

Sports Massages for Enhanced Agility and Recovery:

Tailored for athletes and fitness enthusiasts, sports massage at LiveWell Health contribute to improved agility and faster recovery from sports-related injuries. These massages focus on specific muscle groups, aiding in performance enhancement and injury prevention.

Swedish and Remedial Massages for General Wellbeing:

LiveWell Health’s Swedish and remedial massages go beyond physical relief. They improve circulation, enhance mental health and wellbeing, and provide an overall sense of rejuvenation. The experienced professionals at LiveWell Health ensure that clients receive top-quality treatment tailored to their unique needs.

Reflexology for a focused and specific requirement:

LiveWell Health’s reflexology team carry a mastership in the subject and as such work with people ranging from children to the elderly on issues around stress, womens help, fertility and also palliative care. Reflexology can be used as a more gentle focused approach to massage and gives potential customers the option of something less vigorous.

Conclusion:

As we navigate the challenges of modern life, prioritising both physical and mental wellbeing is crucial. Massage therapy emerges as a holistic approach to achieving this balance. By unravelling the hidden benefits of massages, particularly their impact on stress relief, LiveWell Health aims to empower individuals to proactively manage their health. Whether addressing aches and pains, enhancing athletic performance, or promoting overall mental wellbeing, the diverse range of massages offered by LiveWell Health stands as a testament to their commitment to comprehensive wellness.

For more information on how massage therapy and reflexology can benefit you, contact us on 07939 212 739 or via email at info@livewellhealth.co.uk.

Category: Massage