Massage Therapy

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.

 

Gua Sha

Gua Sha is a traditional Chinese healing therapy also used today by professional licensed massage therapist to improve circulation in tight muscles, increase muscle function and reduce pain and tension. The therapist will use a stone or Gua Sha tool to scrape the surface of the skin which brings blood to the surface to increase circulation.

 

Cupping Therapy

Cupping therapy uses cups to suction the skin and decompress areas of muscle to increase circulation and release muscle tension.

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Hot Stone Massage

Hot Stone Massage involves the application of water-heated basalt stones of varying sizes to key points on the body, giving a deep massage and creating sensations of comfort and warmth.   The basalt stones come from river beds and are heated in hot water to your comfort level. The stones seem to connect with the flow of energy to rebalance the physical body, emotional mind and spirit as one. These stones can also be effective when used during Reflexology treatments to de-stress and stimulate tiny nerve endings in the feet.

 

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.

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Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is an ancient practice of using essential oil to heal by stimulating the olfactory senses, mental responses, circulatory andrespiratory functions. It is one of the fastest growing forms of the healing arts in this country. It employs highly concentrated essential oils extracted from herbs and flowers that contain hormones, vitamins, antibiotics and antiseptics. Applied to the skin during a massage or through inhalation, the oil or combination of oils can be used for medicinal, meditative, restorative, or relaxation purposes.

 

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.