Sports Massage in Soho, London

No. Physiotherapy is a regulated clinical profession covering assessment, diagnosis, and rehabilitation. Sports massage is soft-tissue therapy supporting recovery and treating localised muscle tension. At Soho Physiotherapy our sports-massage clinicians refer across to physio if your problem needs more than soft-tissue work — book physio first if you have a clear injury or persistent pain.

For active people training 3 or more times a week, monthly sessions maintain tissue health. During heavy training blocks (marathon build-up, race week, hard cycling sportive prep) fortnightly sessions are more useful. For a specific tight area or recurring niggle, a course of 3–6 sessions spaced 7–10 days apart usually produces the best result.

A light post-event recovery massage 24–48 hours after a marathon supports range of motion and reduces perceived soreness. Avoid deep tissue work in the first 48 hours — the muscle is already micro-damaged and aggressive work can prolong recovery. We tailor pressure to where you are in your recovery cycle.

Some insurers will cover sports massage when delivered by a registered physiotherapist as part of an MSK treatment plan — typically classified as soft-tissue therapy on your invoice. Stand-alone sports-massage sessions delivered by a non-physiotherapist therapist are usually not covered. Confirm with your insurer before booking, and ask us to invoice appropriately if needed.