What is therapeutic massage?
Therapeutic massage differs from a spa massage in that it is more clinical and intended to address your pain and underlying imbalances. Our therapists have extensive knowledge of anatomy and physiology. They act as “pain detectives” working various muscles groups with a variety of modalities until the root cause of dysfunction is addressed.
In therapeutic massage, the ultimate focus is on functional outcomes, meaning that you should notice palpable relief from pain and an increase in mobility! Your practitioner will work with you to develop a treatment plan, based on the duration and severity of your pain and will offer special self-care techniques such as stretching, postural changes, ergonomics and gait modifications so you may continue your healing progress even when you’re off the table.
How does therapeutic massage work?
Therapeutic massage works to increase blood and lymph circulation. Better circulation can enhance the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to muscle cells. As cellular health improves, tissues function more efficiently. More efficient functioning leads to the removal of waste products and may increase the absorption of excess fluids and reduce swelling in soft tissues.
Massage also relaxes and normalizes the soft tissue of the body – muscle, connective tissue, tendons, and ligaments. You may notice an increase in range of motion and decrease in pain due to this normalization.
Massage also induces a relaxation state in which your heart and breathing rate slow, your blood pressure goes down, and the production of stress hormones decreases. This relaxation state also seems to increase serotonin levels and release endorphins, chemicals in the body that positively affect emotions and thoughts.
Who would benefit from therapeutic massage?
Regular massage can be an essential piece of your health and wellness plan, in conjunction with exercise, proper diet, rest, and chiropractic care. If you need to relax, improve posture and gait, lower blood pressure or reduce pain and stiffness, then therapeutic massage is for you! Here are some other ailments that therapeutic massage can help:
- Athletes to prepare for and recover from rigorous training regimens
- Digestive disorders
- Enhance immunity by improving lymph flow
- Expectant mothers
- Fibromyalgia
- Improve circulation
- Insomnia – massage increases delta waves which are connected to deep sleep
- Lower back pain
- Migraines & headaches
- Nerve pain & numbness
- Post-surgery swelling
- Scar tissue
- Soft tissue strains or injuries
- Sports Injuries
- Temporomandibular joint pain
Massage & Bodywork
Deep Tissue
Slow, deep strokes are used to release holding patterns and tension in the deepest layers of muscle tissue, tendons and fascia. Deep tissue massage is best for chronic pain, injuries and athletes.
Trigger Point
Trigger points are areas of chronic “stagnation” that can refer to other areas. Trigger point therapy addresses the source of your pain through cycles of isolated pressure and release.
Pre-Natal
Pre-natal massage uses special positioning and techniques to alleviate pain and tension and creates overall relaxation for mothers-to-be. We use memory foam wedges and body pillows for comfortable positioning.
Sports Massage
Sports massage is intended for athletes of any level and supports performance and recovery. Sports massage concentrates on increasing motion and flexibility and relieving muscle soreness.
Manual Lymph Drainage
Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) is a form of massage therapy that stimulates the lymphatic system. MLD may be helpful for patients preparing for upcoming surgery or with acute or chronic swelling in their extremities.
Shiatsu
Shiatsu is a Japanese bodywork therapy based on the same principles as acupuncture in which the practitioner uses manual touch along meridian lines to promote the body’s natural healing properties and help restore balance.
Thai Bodywork
Thai bodywork combines passive stretching and movement of joints with several touch techniques and works along energy meridians.
