


Our Therapeutic Techniques and Services:
Medical Massage
Medical massage is a manual technique that is used in a rehabilitative therapy environment. It is
not a general massage treatment like Swedish; rather, it is a therapy applied to a specific
problem area or pathology. Our medical massage therapist uses many of the same techniques
as Swedish massage, but uses them as a preliminary softening of tissue in order to get to the
deep muscle tissue, complex joint systems, and inelastic connective tissue. Medical massage
combines several manual therapies, including Swedish massage, deep tissue massage,
acupressure, neuromuscular massage, craniosacral therapy, and manual lymph drainage.
Deep Tissue Massage
Deep tissue massage focuses on the deeper layers of muscle tissue. When muscles are
stressed, they block oxygen and nutrients, leading to inflammation that builds up toxins in the
muscle tissue. A deep-tissue massage helps loosen muscle tissues, release toxins from
muscles and get blood and oxygen circulating properly. This type of massage also breaks down
scar tissue, known as restrictive fascia (pronounced, fasha). Clients are usually instructed to
drink plenty of water for a couple of days following the massage to help eliminate the released
toxins.
Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is a gentle, rhythmic massage administered to relax soft body tissue and
facilitate healing. It is lighter in touch than other forms of massage and includes long flowing
strokes, kneading, and friction techniques on more superficial layers of the muscles. It can
loosen stiff joints, reduce muscle tension, and help clear nasal or chest congestion. Swedish
massage contributes to overall well-being and is widely prescribed by physicians to enhance
treatment for insomnia, anxiety, and depression.
Manual Lymph Drainage
Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) is a special treatment technique which utilizes lymphatic pathways
to empty and decompress fluid-filled areas, allowing the limb to return to normal or near normal
size. Compression therapy often occurs with an MLD treatment. Multiple layers of low stretch
bandages are applied to the limb in order to achieve a graded compression to prevent the area
from refilling with evacuated fluid. In a later phase of treatment, compression garments are
worn.
Sports Massage
Sports massage is, generally, geared towards athletes and usually given before or after an
athletic event. Before an event, it is used to promote peak performance, improve flexibility, and
reduce the risk of injury. It is used after an event to help reduce muscle soreness and swelling,
break down toxins, and increase blood circulation.
Trigger Point
Trigger point therapy is a bodywork technique that involves the applying of pressure to tender
muscle tissue in order to relieve pain and dysfunction in other parts of the body. Oftentimes
massage and trigger point therapy are performed together. Trigger point therapy is also called
myofascial trigger point therapy. It was developed by Dr. Janet Travell in the United States in the
1940s.
Acupressure
Acupressure was originally devised in the U.S. as a quick stress-reliever for high-powered
professionals too busy to leave their desks. Acupressure focuses on muscles in the back, arms,
hands, shoulders, neck and head, where tension and pain often build up in desk-bound staff
working under pressure. It uses more than 100 different stress release points on the head,
neck, shoulders, arms and back. This is intended not only to relax tense and aching muscles,
but to release energy and invigorate both mind and body. The trained therapist uses hands,
thumbs and even elbows to knead, prod, pull and stretch the muscles. This can feel a little
painful but should not be uncomfortable. Acupressure is often used in tandem with more
traditional massage methods or with aromatherapy.
Chair Massage
Chair or "Seated" massage makes use of a special, comfortable massage chair that the fully
clothed client is seated in and receives treatment on the back, neck, arms, and hands. The chair
massage helps to release stress, muscle tension, and pain, while increasing circulation. It is
very helpful for employees who sit for long hours and/or use computers in preventing serious
conditions such as carpel tunnel syndrome, rounded shoulder/head forward postural problems,
and other work-related conditions. It can be done at location of employment, at special events,
and in our massage studio. Corporate accounts are available.