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Shiatsu and Sports Injuries

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Shiatsu can be very beneficial to athletes by way of alleviating joint pain or just as a muscular workout. Visit the Research page for evidence.

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What athletes have to say about Shiatsu:

"My regular Shiatsu sessions not only help clear up niggles and tightness after long rides, but also give me a chance to unwind and re-balance mentally and emotionally as well as physically.
A serious-but-not-competetive middle-aged club cyclist"

"I recently tore ligaments in my left ankle playing football. At the time I was receiving Shiatsu treatment for another complaint but the Shiatsu therapist  was able to focus on the injured area, stimulating it back to recovery more quickly. My ankles have always been a problem area for me and since the treatment, not only I have not suffered any recurrences but I also believe the treated area to have strengthened. "

“As a Karate instructor I coach and train over 20 sessions a week. By the end of the week my body and mind are very tired. I found that  my Shiatsu sessions removed the pain from strained muscle and help  to reposition my skeleton so I can move with more fluidity. It revives  my energy levels and leaves me in a very happy and relaxed state of  mind; I tell everyone if they are not feeling themselves to get a  treatment, everyone is surprised at how great they feel after a treatment."
Callum Dick

I am an ex rugby player who has now taken up long distance triathlons. A forthcoming Ironman race has meant that my training has increased in intensity - weekly mileages: are swim- 4 miles, Bike 150-210 miles and run 40 miles.
I arranged a Shiatsu consultation because I started to suffer from a sore right shoulder during and after long swims. Swimming in a wetsuit created extra pressure for the joint and was making it quite painful to swim for more than about 30-45 minutes. Any prolonged exercise triggered pain that radiated from the shoulder down to my elbow. During the Shiatsu treatment, Mr Sargent concentrated on my upper body, including my arm, shoulder back and neck. The treatment was quite deep, although never uncomfortable. After the session, the pain certainly reduced and the mobility in my right arm improved considerably. I also noticed a distinct improvement the next time I swam and I now use some of the stretches Mr Sargent used on me as part of my pre-swim warm up. 
Shiatsu student

I have been suffering with lower back problems for approximately 7 years now. I have tried various treatments including acupuncture, traction, physiotherapy, and hydrotherapy, with no improvement or relief. I underwent a discectomy and nerve decompression which actually worsened my condition.  A friend recommended Shiatsu, in particular James Hunter. Following my first treatment my muscle spasms settled and my pain reduced. The treatments also helped with my circulation, which as a Raynauds sufferer was rather poor at times. It has also helped with my psychological well- being which I found immensely important whilst being off work for a  year. Every treatment improves my relaxation and pain levels enabling myself to manage work, my social life and actually begin to enjoy life again. Prior to receiving Shiatsu I felt as though my life was drifting away from me and things were spiralling out of control.  I believe that Shiatsu has given me back my life and control. I receive a treatment every 1-2 weeks and I immediately feel the benefits. Shiatsu gives me a calm balanced feeling and helps reduce my stress levels. Back pain is a debilitating condition that affects a large majority of society, however the general opinion, is that 'it’s only back pain'. Until you suffer from  it you can’t even begin to imagine its effects on everyday life. As a nurse my experiences have allowed myself a better understanding, and insight into holistic alternative approaches. I would recommend James to anyone suffering from a condition that could be alleviated by Shiatsu. He really is a miraculous practitioner!
Claire Mcloughlin, Emergency Nurse Practitioner

I have had several Shiatsu treatments off James Hunter and highly recommend them.  As well as being highly relaxing, I've found them beneficial for both injury rehabilitation and prevention.  Since Shiatsu focuses on the whole body, I often find James has discovered and worked on several niggles before they can develop into full blown injuries. Regular treatments have enabled me to keep pushing my body whilst both training and climbing.
Karin, rock climber

Back in August 2008, a hold broke on an E3 and I dislocated my shoulder. Less than 12 months later I climbed my hardest route ever, Stolen at Kilnsey, my first 8b. By October 2009 I climbed Central Wall(aka Totally Free II) at Malham my second 8b. None of this would have been possible without the help James Hunter and his Shiatsu massages to keep me going between all the punishing training sessions. Jimmy even discovered injuries that I hadn’t mentioned to him. The treatment is very relaxing and revitalising. I thoroughly recommend his Shiatsu massages.
Steve Crowe, rock climber

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Letter to Coaches/Athletes giving them the benefits of Shiatsu

Visit the downloads page for a template letter you can send to atheletes/coaches/sports people informing them of the benefits of Shiatsu for sports injuries.

Sports Injuries Projects

Visit the downloads page to view projects undertaken by Shiatsu members on sports injuries.