Massage Therapy

Massage Therapy

Massage Therapy Research 

by: Belinda Denny


The therapeutic benefits of massage continue to be researched and studied. Recent research has shown the effectiveness of massage for the following conditions:

  • Cancer-related fatigue.
  • Low back pain.
  • Osteoarthritis of the knee.
  • Reducing post-operative pain.
  • Boosting the body’s immune system functioning.
  • Decreasing the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.
  • Lowering blood pressure.
  • Reducing headache frequency.
  • Easing alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
  • Decreasing pain in cancer patients.

The Benefits of Massage

• reduce the effects of stress
• relax muscles
• reduce the heart rate
• lower blood pressure
• increase circulation and lymph flow
• improve range of motion and flexibility
• increase endorphins, the body's natural painkillers
• help break up adipose tissue
• aid in detoxifying your body by eliminating lactic acid build-up
• aid in natural pain relief
• improve the onset and duration of sleep

...

Deep Tissue Massage

Deep Tissue massage is designed to relieve severe tension in the muscle and the connective tissue or fascia. This type of massage focuses on the muscles located below the surface of the top muscles. Deep tissue massage is often recommended for individuals who experience consistent pain, are involved in heavy physical activity, and patients who have had an injury.

Sports Massage

Sports massage is geared toward athletes of every kind, from world-class professionals to weekend warriors. The particulars of this type of massage are specific to the athlete’s sport and are often focused on a particular troublesome area like the knee, hamstring or shoulder.
Aspects of massage are gaining popularity as useful components in a balanced training regimen. Sports massage can be used as a means to enhance pre-event preparation and reduce recovery time for maximum performance during training or after an event. Sports enthusiasts have discovered that regular sports massage promotes flexibility, improves energy, helps prevent injuries, improves endurance, and prepares them to compete at their absolute best.

Myofascial release

Myofascial release refers to the manual massage technique for stretching the soft tissues and releasing bonds between fascia and muscles with the goal of eliminating pain and increasing range of motion. Myofascial release usually involves applying shear compression or tension in various directions, or by skin rolling.

Swedish massage

Swedish massage uses a combination of long, flowing strokes. The basic strokes are effleurage (sliding or gliding), petrissage (kneading), tapotement (rhythmic tapping) and friction (cross fiber). Swedish massage has shown to be helpful in reducing pain, joint stiffness, and improving function in patients with osteoarthritis. It has also been shown to be helpful in individuals with poor circulation.

Trigger point therapy

This specialized massage involves deactivating trigger points that may cause local pain or refer pain and other sensations, such as headaches, in other parts of the body. Manual pressure and vibration are applied to these points to relieve myofascial pain. Trigger points were first discovered and mapped by Janet G. Travell (president Kennedy's physician) and David Simons. These points relate to dysfunction in the myoneural junction, also called neuromuscular junction (NMJ), in muscle, and therefore this modality is different from reflexology, acupressure and pressure point massage.

Pregnancy Massage

Designed to give relief to the special needs of the mother to be. Enjoy a comforting and soothing experience during this period of change. This specialized massage will help relieve weight-bearing aches and pains, increase circulation and reduce swelling while relaxing yourself and the baby, too.

Why should I get regular massages?
Massage is excellent for promoting relaxation, relieving muscle tension, and decreasing stress related symptoms. This full body technique uses long strokes that glide along the length of the muscles to improve overall circulation and provide a feeling of deep relaxation and well-being.

How often should I get a massage?
Frequency depends on your personal preference and degree of discomfort.

Do I have to take all my clothes off?
No, you may undress to the level that you are comfortable. Blankets are properly draped over you during the massage…and our therapists will make sure you are at ease.