Massage therapy is an accepted part of many physical rehabilitation programs, and has proven beneficial for many chronic conditions, including: back pain, arthritis, fatigue, high blood pressure, depression, scar tissue, restricted range of motion.
Massage also helps relieve the stress and tension of everyday living that can lead to disease and illness. The specific techniques applied through massage increase circulation in the treated area which brings more oxygen, nutrients, and energy to the area and revitalizes the tissues. Toxins and other waste materials are eliminated and the body’s natural endorphins are released. Several different techniques account for the many variations in massage.
The application of these techniques may include, but is not limited to, stroking, kneading, tapping, compression, vibration, rocking, friction, and pressure to the muscular structure or soft tissues of the human body. This may also include non-forceful passive or active movement and/or application of techniques intended to affect the energetic systems of the body.
Swedish massage, one of the most well-known massage techniques, is a system of treatment designed to energize the body by stimulating circulation.
Through techniques such as effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, vibration, compression and friction, the physical structures of the body are impacted. An increasing number of research studies show massage reduces heart rate, lowers blood pressure, increases blood circulation and lymph flow, relaxes muscles, improves range of motion, and increases endorphins.
Although therapeutic massage does not increase muscle strength, it can stimulate weak, inactive muscles and, thus, partially compensate for the lack of exercise and inactivity resulting from illness or injury. In addition, massage can reduce stress, encourage relaxation and promote better body awareness
Orthopedic Massage involves therapeutic assessment, manipulation and movement of soft tissues to reduce or eliminate pain and dysfunction. The multi-disciplinary approach includes functional assessment, myofascial release, neuromuscular therapy, scar tissue mobilization, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, stretching, neuromuscular re-education, strengthening, and client home care techniques.
This modality is often more active for clients than classical massage since active range of motion, stretching and muscle testing is involved. Clients find that various structural issues, even chronic complaints, can be resolved in only few sessions – sometimes even within one session. The modality combines elements of sports and medical massage to treat soft tissue pain, injury and scar tissue adhesions. In addition to the benefits of traditional massage, such as relaxation and increased circulation, orthopedic massage aims to dissolve adhesions; normalize the position of soft tissue and release its torsion; lengthen the connective tissue; hydrate the joints, restoring their natural lubrication and normal biomechanics; facilitate normal neurological function by muscle energy techniques; and release entrapment of the peripheral nerves.
Clients are empowered to work with their bodies to attain maximum functionality and range of motion.
Because of the active nature of this modality, it is recommended that clients bring loose-fitting shorts and a t-shirt in which they can receive treatment.