Martin Merrell
BSc Sports Science Dip. Sports Massage Dip. Remedial Massage
As an individual member of the L.C.S.P.. I am bound by its ethical framework for good practice in Remedial/Sports Massage and subject to the professional conduct procedure therein
Sports/Remedial massage helps to alleviate the stress and tension which builds up in the body’s soft tissues (muscles, tendons, ligaments and fascia). Most pain is myofascial (soft tissue) in origin. Trigger points (sensitive points in muscles, which radiate or refer pain to various parts of the body) can mimic many conditions. Muscles not only move our joints, they stabilise them, and they provide armour for the internal organs, minor problems with these functions cause more pain than most people realise.
Most headaches originate in the muscles of the neck and head. Much of the pain of such conditions as angina comes from the hypercontraction of the chest muscles. Much abdominal and pelvic pain can be caused by trigger points in the abdominal and pelvic muscles. Low back pain and sciatic pain are far more likely to originate in muscles than in vertebral disc problems. Sports/Remedial massage often incorporates a combination of other techniques involving stretching, compression, friction, toning, and trigger point response techniques similar to Acupressure and Shiatsu. Sports/Remedial massage brings together this blend of techniques, knowledge and advice during treatment, to work effectively with the client to bring about optimum performance and to contribute to injury-free training/living.
Studying anatomy and physiology at Manchester Metropolitan University, and The Northern Institute of Massage has enabled me to assess and provide appropriate treatment for a wide variety of conditions. For nine years I have worked alongside other therapists, such as chiropractors, osteopaths, cranial sacral therapists, psychologists, aromatherapists, etc, as well as working closely with local GP’s to obtain the best treatment plan for the patient.
Specific injuries (whiplash, falls, sports injuries, etc.), stress, RSI (repetitive strain injuries), other work-related problems, as well as postural (structural) alignment problems that sometimes go back to childhood and adolescence. I have been trained to work with/ treat individuals with learning disabilities (including autistic spectrum disorder)/mobility problems in their home environment.
