Frequently Asked Questions

While sports therapy treatments are generally safe and effective, like any physical therapy or manual treatment, there can be some side effects, especially if the body is adjusting to new movements, techniques, or intensity levels. These side effects are usually temporary and should resolve within a short period.

Here are three common side effects that can occur after a sports therapy treatment:

1. Soreness or Discomfort
   • Cause: Sports therapy often involves deep tissue work, stretching, and manipulation of muscles and joints, which can lead to temporary muscle soreness, similar to the feeling after a workout.
   • Duration: This can last anywhere from a few hours to 1-2 days after treatment, depending on the intensity and the individual’s level of physical activity.
   • Management: Gentle movement, hydration, or using ice/heat therapy can help reduce discomfort.
2. Bruising
   • Cause: Techniques like deep tissue massage, myofascial release, or cupping therapy can sometimes cause small
     blood vessels under the skin to break, leading to bruising.
   • Duration: Bruising is usually mild and can last between 3–7 days, depending on the intensity of the treatment.
   • Management: Applying ice to the area immediately after the session can help reduce the likelihood of bruising. However,
     it’s generally harmless.
3. Fatigue or Tiredness
   • Cause: Sports therapy can stimulate the body’s healing process, which may lead to temporary fatigue as the body adapts and recovers. Additionally, the relaxation response from certain therapies (e.g., sports massage) can lead to a sense of tiredness.
   • Duration: Fatigue typically lasts a few hours after treatment.
   • Management: It is important to rest and stay hydrated
     following treatment to help the body recover.

Additional Potential Side Effects:

• Headaches: Some clients may experience headaches, especially if the therapy targets areas like the neck and shoulders or if they are particularly tense.
• Dizziness: Occasionally, clients may feel lightheaded or dizzy, particularly if the treatment involves a significant amount of stretching or postural changes.
• Nausea: Rare, but sometimes a feeling of nausea can arise due to the body’s release of toxins during deep tissue work or after intense treatments.

It’s important to note that while these side effects are generally mild and temporary, if a client experiences severe pain, swelling, or other significant issues after treatment, they should consult their therapist to ensure that the treatment was appropriate for their condition.