Massage Oils, Creams, Balm & Talc: Advantages & Disadvantages for Sports Therapy

Question
Hi Michael,
I am currently studying a sports therapy course and am investigating the advantages and disadvantages of different massage mediums. I have oil, cream, talc and sports balm to find out about. A lthough i have some ideas i wonderered if i could go more in depth with them for example, i know sports balm can soothe and warm up the muscles but what other advantages would it have? I also have very similar answers for cream and oil although i think oil is a much better medium to massage with than the oil. I just seem to have preety obvious answers and wondered if there is anything i am missing! Would be v grateful if u cud help thanks!
nikki

Answer
Thanks for your inquiry, Nikki.

Here is what I could find:

http://www.cycleweb.co.uk/isis/benefits.htm

This second site, although it is thoroughly commercial in its approach, gives some ideas as to why to use the oils, talc, cream, or sports balm in different situations:

http://rehabilitation-products.medical-supplies-equipment-company.com/PPF/page_I...

IMHO, the bottom line for any of the mediums is which will be giving the most client benefit and is most acceptable for use by both client and practitioner?

I hope that helps you,
Michael, LMT