Learn about Massage Therapy Techniques
Many of our clients are interested in learning more about the different massage therapy techniques. As a Wellness and Pain Relief Center our focus is on the deeper, muscular and structural techniques. We do offer a variation of Swedish, known as our Therapeutic Swedish Medical Massage, which is more medical/clinical-based.
The following videos should give you a brief introduction of what to expect and hopefully answer any questions you have about the different types of massage therapy.
Therapeutic Swedish Medical Massage
The term “Swedish Massage” refers to a variety of techniques. You may be most familiar with a combination of non specific massage with lots of oil, unlike our therapeutic method.
Our Therapeutic Swedish medical massage takes a more clinical approach designed to be soothing and also address the lymphatic system and hyper-sensitivity. Physiologically speaking the fluid in the lymphatic system helps remove waste and toxins from bodily tissues. Some health conditions can cause lymph fluid to build up and create numerous health conditions. While the heart continuously pumps blood through the blood vessels, the lymphatic system relies on the movement of smooth muscles to transport fluid through the lymph channels. When these channels are blocked, it can cause issues like lymphedema, compromise your auto-immune system and create skin hyper-sensitivity.
Techniques
We use a form of gentle massage that encourages the movement of lymph fluids around the whole body using very light pressure, similar to lymphatic drainage, but not as focused on a particular issue.
Benefits
These massages can benefit people with lymphedema, fibromyalgia, and other conditions. Lymphatic massage can reduce swelling and improve circulation throughout the lymphatic system. Our Therapeutic Swedish Medical Massage, focuses on more curative goals, positively affecting lymph, nerves, endocrine system, and circulation, while promoting health and well-being. It is quite beneficial for those who may be hyper-sensitive to touch and those with PTSD, as well. (Highly Sensitive Person)
Clinical/Medical Deep Tissue Massage
Our Clinical/Medical Deep tissue massage involves slow strokes with deep pressure. Firm pressured strokes towards the heart decreases sensitivity. Pressure is applied in the opposite direction of muscles that cause pains and aches. This type of massage benefits people who experience muscle tension, chronic inflammation, muscle pain and physical stress.
Benefits
Deep tissue massage offers several mental and physical benefits. This massage style relieves stress and promotes relaxation. Deep tissue massage also relieves pain and muscle stiffness associated with athletic injuries, arthritis, fibromyalgia, muscle spasms, carpal tunnel syndrome and whiplash.
Clinical/Medical Sports Massage Therapy
Clinical/Medical Sports massage involves firm pressure towards the heart with stretching and deep tissue massage.
Benefits
Promotes increased mobility, increased blood flow and decreased lactic acid in muscle system while helping you to recover from high activity events.
Clinical/Medical Structural Massage Therapy
Clinical/Medical Massage therapy is based on the premise that true healing lies in treating the whole person, not just symptoms. The closer we come to balance the healthier and happier we are. Therapy assists the patient at becoming more integrated in their body through a comprehensive program combining all types of massage, including soft tissue manipulation techniques that aim to bring upon homeostasis between the nervous system (brain, spinal cord, nerves) and musculoskeletal system (muscles and bones).
This process is begun by discussing the type and location of your pain. This determines which muscle needs to be worked in order to lengthen or shorten it, thereby breaking the pain cycle. Deep massage focuses on pain patterns and “cause and effect.” Deep massage following structural discrepancies such as “high” shoulder, “high or low” hip, rounded shoulders, and forward head positioning. These structural asymmetries or distortions cause pain or pain cycles that never seem to go away. The procedure includes the application of pressure to the muscle, causing a release of stored tension. Ideally, the individual will become more aware of his body and how he contributes to his pain cycle. Clients will also learn the importance of maintaining relaxation, especially in highly stressful environments. With time and successive treatments, the muscle will regain its proper shape. In most cases, this therapy along with cleansing, stretching, and proper exercise can permanently alleviate chronic pain. Therapy may include myofascial release, triggerpoint therapy, craniosacral therapy, active release and energetic healing techniques.
Manipulation of the soft tissues of the body can produce amazing and dramatic results — see for yourself!
How many treatments does a patient need? This question varies with each individual depending upon the severity of their condition, nutritional health, age, fitness, emotional health, the skill of the therapist, etc. One person may need only one session, some may need 8 sessions. Generally after about 3 to 5 sessions the patient feels a great improvement in their health. When the problem is eliminated, the patient should have a treatment monthly to maintain their health and help prevent future imbalances from occurring.
For more information on pain free living please call 704-763-2625