Specializing in Pain Management & Soft Tissue Damage
 

What is a Massage Like?:

Massage and related bodywork techniques can release painful muscle tension, improve circulation, increase joint flexibility and reduce mental and physical fatigue. In addition, massage is among the most effective means available to combat stress. But the question most people want answered before first trying this healthful and enjoyable experience is, "What will it actually be like?"

What are some types of massage?

Swedish massage is what many people think of when massage is mentioned. It uses long f lowing strokes, deep kneading, surface friction, light tapping, and joint movement.

Many therapists are trained in specialized types of bodywork which they may use exclusively or in some combination. For example, there are special techniques to relieve painful trigger points, relax contracted fascia (the muscles’ protective coverings), realign and heal injured tissue, aid lymph drainage, or restore the natural balance and flow of energy throughout the body.

What is a massage therapist?

Massage therapists have completed many hours of education which includes a variety of bodywork techniques, extensive anatomy and physiology and knowledge of when massage is and is not appropriate. A growing number of states and provinces license massage therapists. Ask your therapist to explain his or her unique combination of specialized training.

What is the first appointment like?

Your massage therapist will begin by asking you general health questions since there are some conditions for which massage is not appropriate.

Depending on the primary technique your therapist uses, you may or may not need to undress. For a full body Swedish massage, most people undress completely, though you may choose to wear underwear. Your massage therapist will give you privacy to undress, and you are normally covered except for the area being worked on.

You will relax on a padded table designed for stability and comfort. Your therapist may offer cushions or an adjustable face rest for support. The room will be warm and quiet, often with soft music to set a relaxing mood.

For many techniques, your massage therapist will use a lubricant, such as light oil or lotion, which is good for your skin and absorbs well. For some kinds of bodywork, no oil is used.

A massage or bodywork session usually begins with relatively gentle pressure to calm your nervous system and begin releasing superficial tension. Gradually, your therapist works more deeply to address specific areas.

What should I do during a massage?

Make yourself comfortable. If your therapist wants you to adjust your position, she or he will either move you (for instance lift your arm) or will tell you what is needed. Otherwise, change your position anytime to make yourself more comfortable.

Many people just close their eyes and relax completely during a session; others prefer to talk It's your massage, and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to relax. Do not hesitate to ask questions at any time.

The desire to sigh or take a deep breath is a sign that you are relaxing. In fact, deep natural breaths can actually help you relax.

How will a massage feel?

Massage on healthy tissue feels good. The normal response is to slow down, breathe deeply and relax.

Some people are surprised to find that a massage does not tickle. Your massage therapist uses gentle but firm pressure, gradually preparing you for deeper touch.

The saying” no pain, no gain is not true for massage and bodywork. The most effective and deepest massage works with the body's natural responses, not against them. Working in the area of an injury or chronic pain may at first cause some discomfort, which usually lessens in the first few minutes. Your massage therapist knows ways to minimize pain, and will work carefully within what feels right to you. Always tell your therapist if you feel any discomfort so she or he can adjust.

How long is a session?

An hour is a common session length. This gives time for a deeply relaxing full body massage, or more in‑depth work on a particular area, for example back, neck and shoulders. A half‑hour can be an excellent introduction to bodywork, with plenty of time for a specific area such as back, neck and shoulders or legs and feet. An hour and a half is usually enough time to address the whole body, with special attention to a problem area.

What should I expect afterwards?

Massage and bodywork can be profoundly relaxing, affecting all your body’s systems. Give yourself a moment to reorient before slowly getting up.

After a session, most people feel very relaxed. Many experience freedom from aches and pains that have built up over months of tension or repetitive activity. After an initial period of feeling slowed down, people often experience an increase in energy that can last for several days.

Sometimes you may not feel dramatic results right away. Watch for changes over the following days, such as pain relief, increased mobility or reduced stress.

Types of Massage Explained:

• Relaxation:  Most popular form of massage for relaxation and reducing tension.
   

• Athletic: Techniques help maintain an active person's full mobility, enhance performance, prevent injury and help shorten recovery time.
   

• Deep Tissue: Releases chronic patterns of tension using deep, slow pressure on contracted areas.
   

• Pregnancy: Client is side-lying position with pillow supports. Eases bodily changes and discomfort experienced during pregnancy.
   

• Neuromuscular Therapy - NMT: A special type of massage that works the specific areas of chronic pain & dysfunction. Usually associated with trigger points at the attachments or the belly of the muscle or muscles involved. TMJ is also very receptive to NMT therapy as well.
   

• Myofacial: This therapy works both the superficial fascia and myofascia of the body It will create a lighter, roomier and freer feel, thus increasing R.O.M. to superficial tissue and major joints. It is now widely accepted that proper care of the myofascial portion of the connective tissue system as an integral part in achieving optimal health and function.
   

• Medical Massage: A large array of modalities from many disciplines that are combined to treat a specific injury as it is presented to the therapist at the time of treatment.
   

• Cranial Sacral: Designed for treatment of headaches, head injury, TMJ problems and some types of back pain. This is a gentle technique of aligning the hydraulic system that surrounds the central nervous system.

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