Treatments

Assessment

At MCR Sports Therapy Clinic, we offer assessment and diagnosis, treatment and therapy for all manner of musculoskeletal complaints. The muscle activation technique (MAT) is a non-invasive means of assessment and correction of muscular imbalances, joint problems and restrictions in ranges of motion.

Functional movement screening (FMS) is a tool used to identify asymmetrical bodily movements which result in mobility and stability imbalances.

These imbalances cause functional deficiencies, limitations in performance and increase the risk of injury. Based on assessments derived from FMS, MCR Sports Therapy Clinic will carry out treatment and recommend a programme of progressive resistive exercises, towards prevention of problems in the future.

What should I wear to my appointment?

Sports massage therapy works best when the therapist has unobstructed access to muscles. While we generally recommend the removal of clothing and provide fresh towels to all clients, we will endeavour to work however you are most comfortable.

The suitability of your clothing for the appointment will depend entirely on your level of comfort and the nature of the treatment you require. For lower body treatments, we recommend a pair of short loose-fitting shorts, to enable access to the upper leg.

For upper back treatments we recommend the complete removal of your top. Lower back treatments can be carried out by lifting a loose-fitting top.

MCR Sports Therapy Clinic offers a broad range of state-of-the-art musculoskeletal treatments, therapies and massage techniques.

Active Release Technique – A manual soft tissue therapy targeting muscular fibrosis and adhesions

Trigger Point Therapy – A remedial massage therapy which alleviates pain by eliminating the causes of referral pains

Maitland Techniques – An approach which focusses on passive and accessory movements of the spine to treat pain and stiffness

Myofascial Release – Focussed on relieving tension within the fascia which encases the body’s musculoskeletal structures

Joint Manipulation Techniques – Designed to relieve joint pain and joint dysfunction, this technique also aims to improve range of motion

Therapy

MCR Sports Therapy Clinic also offers a range of non-invasive musculoskeletal therapies, designed for immediate pain relief and the return of normal and pain-free musculoskeletal function.

Kinesio Tape

Kinesio Tape is a specially designed adhesive and highly elastic material. Through adhesion and contraction, the tape lifts the skin creating space between the dermal layers and muscle tissue. Medical professionals posit that the slight lifting disrupts the way pain signals are transmitted to the brain. Kinesio tape is often used in conjunction with treatments listed above.

Laser Light Therapy (LLT)

LLT helps to reduce pain and inflammation by stimulating muscle cells to produce substances conducive to healing. Research has also shown that LLT can trigger the production of stem cells and progenitor cells, which contribute to muscle repair.

Ultrasound Therapy (US)

US uses sounds waves outside of human hearing spectrum to vibrate and stimulate muscle tissue. Vibration of muscle tissue can aid tissue relaxation, improve local blood flow and help breakdown scar tissue. Therapeutic ultrasound is a non-invasive and safe form of muscle treatment.

What Training Do You Have?

I am a fully qualified and insured Sports Massage Therapist. I also attend regular technical and informational training courses to stay on track with the latest progressions and continue my own development to provide you with the best care and knowledge possible.

Is It Painful?

It depends a lot on your individual pain tolerance and experience with being treated. Most clients can feel some discomfort here and there but refer to it as a “good pain”. We often work at a deep level releasing long-held tension so you’ll feel instantly better after your session. However, to create a permanent change in a soft tissue quickly sometimes techniques are required that can be painful. Of course, if at any point you are feeling uncomfortable then the pressure or technique can be adjusted.

Will I Be Treated During My Initial Injury Assessment?

Definitely. While we do start your initial consultation with a thorough assessment and joint/muscle testing the majority of the session will be the treatment that you receive.

How Many Sessions Do I Need?

I will be able to provide you with a much more accurate timeline following your initial assessment. However, as a general rule of thumb the following holds true:

Minor: 1-3 Sessions
Major: 3-5 Sessions
Complex: 5-10+ Sessions

These are very general estimates as every client case varies, and often you’ll feel improvement from the very first session. For treatments of 3 or more sessions booked in advance there are discounts available.

How Can It Help Me If I’m Not In Pain?

When we talk about future-proofing your body, we mean it. Don’t wait for an injury to build up. Our modern lifestyle habits of being glued to a chair or couch for many hours a day or in front of a computer screen does not allow our body to work or maintain itself the way it’s supposed to. Add in some weekend warrior activity after a stressful week with very little movement, and you’ve got a recipe for disaster.

On the other hand, if we take the time on a monthly basis to address your muscular tension, improve your movement patterns, address lifestyle factors, and ensure that we’re dealing intelligently with tweaks and aches before they become a major problem, you’re going to feel better, move faster, and live a longer, pain free life.