How to Do Sports Massage for Groin Strain

Groin strains and pulls are common in many different types of sports activities. Generally, it is a good idea to begin administering treatment as soon as possible. Sports massage is a wonderful way to help minimize the pain associated with the condition as well as help the athlete recover. The main benefits are help ease the tension brought on by any type of pull or strain, while also promoting a healthy flow of blood and thus induce natural healing.

Things You'll Need

• A flat surface with minimum padding. If a massage table is not available, a sturdy folding or wooden table will do.
• Some type of lubricant. Mineral oils, including baby oil will do fine. Scented massage oils can also be used for sports massage treatments.

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Instructions

• 1

  Apply a small amount of oil to the hands and gently stroke the area between the back of the knee and the top of the hamstring. Do not apply a lot of pressure at this point. The idea is to stroke in an upward movement that will warm the area and prepare the muscles for more aggressive massage. Complete each upward movement by sliding the hands down the outside of the leg, applying no pressure, then repeat. Continue this for up to ten minutes

• 2

  Begin to knead the muscles. Use both hands for this step by moving part of the muscle toward you with the fingers of one hand while moving the other part in the opposite direction with the fingers of the other hand. Complete one round, then reverse the process. Repeat the movement up and down the muscles for approximately five minutes.

• 3

  Use the thumbs to apply pressure to as much of the muscle as possible. The idea is to locate the pressure area of the strain and gently smooth it out. Hold for a count of ten, then release. Repeat four to five rounds, then alternate this movement with the kneading action in Step 2.

• 4

  Address any specific knots found in the general area of the strain, apply pressure with the thumbs to encourage smoothing action. Continue more kneading action interspersed with the kneading action for five to ten minutes.