Skateboarding, an exhilarating blend of athleticism and artistry, has seen a surge in popularity among kids and teenagers. Maybe it has something to do with skateboarding making its debut appearance at the 2020 Summer Olympics in 2021 in Tokyo, Japan.
While it offers young enthusiasts an excellent way to express themselves and stay active, skateboarding has its risks. The frequent tumbles, jumps, and tricks often lead to various injuries and ailments. Enter pediatric massage therapy, a potential game-changer in the world of skateboarding injuries. Let’s explore how this therapeutic technique can help our young skateboarders heal and stay agile.
The Skateboarding Strain: Common Injuries and Ailments
Skateboarding, especially when practiced without proper training or protective gear, can lead to various injuries:
Sprains and Strains: The rapid twists, turns, and jumps can lead to muscle strains, particularly in the legs and lower back. Ankle sprains are also common due to missed landings.
Contusions and Bruises: Falling off a skateboard can result in bruises, particularly on the hips, elbows, and knees.
Wrist Fractures: One of the most common reactions to a fall is to outstretch the hand, leading to wrist fractures or sprains.
Overuse Injuries: Like any sport, repetitive motions in skateboarding, such as pushing off with one foot over and over, can lead to overuse injuries.
Pediatric Massage: An Amazing Recovery Technique
Pediatric massage, when provided by Certified Pediatric Massage Therapists (CPMT®s), can offer multiple benefits to young skateboarders.
Enhanced Muscle Recovery: Regular massage can improve blood circulation, facilitating the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to muscle cells. This aids in faster recovery from muscle strains.
Reduced Muscle Tension: The tension that builds up in muscles from repetitive skateboarding movements can be alleviated through massage, promoting relaxation and reducing the risk of strains.
Improved Flexibility: Massage helps lengthen muscle fibers, enhancing flexibility. A more flexible skateboarder can execute tricks more efficiently and also less prone to injuries.
Pain Management: For skateboarders with contusions and bruises, gentle massage can help reduce pain and swelling. It also stimulates the body’s production of endorphins, natural painkillers.
Correcting Muscle Imbalances: Overuse injuries from skateboarding may stem from muscle imbalances. Regular massage can identify and help rectify these imbalances, reducing the risk of injury.
Stress Reduction: Beyond the physical benefits, massage offers mental relaxation. The pressure of mastering a trick or the anxiety following a fall can be mentally taxing. Massage can help reduce stress, ensuring the skateboarder approaches the sport with a relaxed mind.
Skateboarding, while immensely enjoyable, comes with its fair share of risks. However, with measures like pediatric massage therapy, young skateboarders can enjoy the sport with reduced injury concerns. Not only does massage therapy address specific ailments resulting from skateboarding mishaps, but it also prepares the body to be more resilient against future potential injuries. As always, if your child is an avid skateboarder, ensure they wear the proper protective gear, and consider integrating pediatric massage into their routine for healing and preventive care.
