BODYWORK MODALITIES

SWEDISH MASSAGE

The main purpose of Swedish massage is to increase the oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins from the muscles. Other possible benefits include stimulation of circulation, an increase in muscle tone, and a balance of the musculo-skeletal systems. Swedish massage shortens recovery time from muscular strain by flushing the tissues of lactic acid, uric acid, and other metabolic wastes. It increases circulation without increasing heart load.

DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE

Deep tissue massage is aimed at the deeper tissue structures of muscle and fascia, which is also called connective tissue.  Many of the same movements and techniques are used as Swedish massage, but with more intense, slow and focused pressure to release specific chronic muscle tension or “knots” (also known as “adhesions”).  People who suffer from chronic pain, high blood pressure, or muscle injury and overuse tend to benefit most from deep tissue massage.

Be sure to always communicate openly with your therapist during your session about the pressure that is being used and your comfort level.  Some pain is to be expected, but it should always be manageable and should never feel like you’re stiffening your muscles to get through the strokes.

LYMPHATIC MASSAGE

The lymphatic system plays a central role in the removal of metabolic waste.  When the lymphatic flow is interrupted or becomes stagnant through lack of hydration, poor diet or inactivity, all other systems in the body are affected negatively.  One way to kick start the lymphatic system and improve its efficiency is through lymphatic massage.

Lymphatic Drainage promotes a healthy lymphatic system through massaging the lymph nodes and pressure points, while honoring the natural flow of fluid in the body. By circulating this valuable fluid, the lymphatic system removes waste and flushes out toxins. This therapy is ideal for clients with Lymphedema helping to reduce swelling and boost the immune system. Lymphatic drainage can also reduce aches, pains, and soreness caused by congestion in lymph pathways.

Lymphatic massage uses gentle, rhythmic strokes along the body to gently “PUMP” lymph fluid manually through the body.  Improvements in lymph flow improve the removal of waste from the body.  In turn, supporting the body’s ability to detoxify and increase its metabolic rate.  The positive effects of this type of massage therapy range from reduced fluid retention… to better pain management and an increased feeling of well-being.

Lymphatic massage also can have a positive effect on the nervous system and, therefore, support the body and mind in dealing with chronic conditions that are associated with the nervous system.

MEDICAL MASSAGE

Did you know that massage can sometimes be prescribed by a physician for the treatment of certain conditions? Medical massage is the term used for using specific massage techniques to address and improve these specific issues.

Medical massage – also known as clinical or treatment massage – is the application of a specific treatment targeted at a specific, medically-diagnosed problem. Massage therapists are not permitted to diagnose their clients; thus, you’ll need to have the help of a doctor to formally diagnose your condition and determine whether massage will be an effective treatment.

Medical massage isn’t confined to one technique. Several techniques can be incorporated in order to achieve relief from your condition. These include, among others:

  • Myofascial treatment;
  • Deep tissue massage;
  • Neuromuscular trigger point therapy;
  • Cross-fiber friction;
  • Muscle energy technique.

What Kinds of Conditions are Treated with Medical Massage?

There are several conditions that can be lessened – or even completely healed – with medical massage. Some examples are:

  • Sciatica;
  • Rotator cuff injury;
  • Constipation;
  • Fibromyalgia;
  • Plantar fasciitis;
  • Restless leg syndrome;
  • Edema
  • Thoracic Outlet Syndrome;
  • Automobile accident injuries;
  • Work-related injuries;
  • Muscle cramps;
  • Range of motion issues.

While some of these conditions can also be addressed by other forms of massage, medical massage is singularly focused on solving a primary issue.

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