Springhead Sports Massage: the first ten years

This April I am celebrating my first ten years as a sports & remedial massage therapist. I remember in 2013 experiencing Imposter Syndrome as I invited my first clients onto the couch since qualifying. Much has changed since then …

During my Diploma with the LSSM, I learnt essential anatomy and physiology as well as soft tissue and stretch techniques. I then did various add-on courses, including Advanced Techniques with Jing in Brighton.

Between 2017 and 2018 I embarked on a series of courses with Myofascial Release UK. These courses helped me to bridge the gap in my work between the purely biomechanical model of the body and the more subtle energetic body. To me it felt like the missing link in bodywork. The myofascial approach enabled me to develop greater sensitivity in my hands and a better understanding of each individual body as a whole. I have since developed confidence in my techniques, which now include abdominal massage, cranial work, and pelvic rebalancing.

Over the years I have treated a wide range of musculoskeletal issues (sporting and otherwise), as well as chronic illness and psycho-emotional issues, including stress. I also work post-operatively to help with rehabilitation e.g. of shoulders and hips. I enjoy the fact that everyone who comes into my practice has a unique set of needs and a different way of responding to treatment. I try where I can keep a beginner’s mind so that I can respond to the individual needs of each client.

The pandemic in 2020 meant that, for several months, I was not able to offer hands-on treatment. This was a time for reflection (and a little rest!), reviewing my practices, embarking on various on-line CPD courses, updating my admin processes, redecorating my treatment room, and getting to grips with PPE and other Covid protocols.

Post-pandemic there was a big step up in demand for hands-on therapy. There are numerous reasons for this, but it is no big surprise after a time of limited access to health care, a big increase in the number of people working from home and other major life-style changes.

I have recently been enjoying another period of professional development. See my March blog about the myofascial release (MFR) Master class in London. There is so much to be learnt working with other therapists and this was an inspirational afternoon.

Latest news is that I now have a fully functional online booking system. This enables my clients to access my professional diary, to book a time that suits them and to reschedule if needed. It also sends out automatic appointment reminders, cutting out the risk of error when writing them manually. Not having to worry about admin during appointments, means that there is more time to focus on clients.

In October I am attending a weekend course at the Bristol College of Massage and Bodywork: Fascia for Sport (Myofascial Release UK).  This incorporates theory, current research, and a variety of fascial approaches in the treatment of common sporting injuries (or from daily life).

The first ten years of Springhead Sports Massage have brought with them much growth and development. It seems that every session in my treatment room brings a new experience or challenge, and I am looking forward to watching my practice develop further.