I am constantly educating myself in the newest and most up to date modalities in massage therapy. My goals are to have a vast array of techniques to draw upon to customize the massage experience of every client. I am a detective of the body and will use every tool available to me.
DEEP TISSUE
This type of massage goes beyond the surface of the skin and underlying soft tissue to deep areas of the muscle and right to the “belly” of the muscle. As the name suggests, “deep” is the key word here. This type of massage also involves the manipulation of the fascia. Fascia is like a web, that runs through the entire body. This connective tissue, when traumatized, inflamed or restricted can create a great deal of pain and restrict motion of the body.
Release of toxins, opening and balancing the fascia and release of ligaments and tendons are all taken into consideration when using this technique.
Deep slow strokes using the hands, palms, fingers and elbow can cause some tenderness and soreness the day following a massage using deep tissue massage.
MYOFASCIAL RELEASE THERAPY
John F. Barnes P.T. , the authority on Myofascial Release, comes to mind when this therapy is mentioned. He is considered to be a visionary and teacher of the highest caliber. John travels extensively and teaches his techniques in his hands-on seminars.
This type of therapy treats the fascial system using gentle pressure application where fascial restrictions are found on the body. This therapy is used to treat trauma, restriction of motion or inflamed pressure that influence a fascial damaged area and produces pain and discomfort that might be found in back pain, fibromyalgia , TMJ, restricted motion, spasm and much more.
NEUROMUSCULAR THERAPY
By definition, is the utilization of static pressure on specific myofascial points to relieve pain. A neuromuscular therapist will be well versed in biomechanics and kinesiology. This therapy uses soft tissue manipulation based on the central nervous system and the musculoskeletal system to relieve pain and treat dysfunction created by an underlying cause. Through training a therapist understands and can treat these symptoms taking in account the location of myofascial trigger points and the extent of pressure to apply at these points. Pain is felt in these areas due to lack of oxygen and nutrients in this location. This technique opens these areas up and gives relief to pain.
PREGNANCY MASSAGE
Also called prenatal massage, pregnancy massage is becoming increasingly popular with expectant mothers. Massage therapists who are certified in pregnancy massage know the proper way to position and support the woman’s body during the massage, and how to modify techniques.
Pregnancy massage is used to reduce stress, decrease swelling, relieve aches and pains, and reduce anxiety and depression. The massage is customized to a woman’s individual needs.
RAINDROP THERAPY
Defects in the curvature of the spine caused by dormant viruses and bacteria are treated with antimicrobial essential oils. Raindrop therapy combines aromatherapy, reflexology, massage and moist heat to restore structural balance to the body. This therapy uses a sequence of essential oils including Thyme, Oregano, Cypress, Peppermint, Wintergreen, Basil, Marjoram, Aroma Siez along with a blend of massage oils. This is sprinkled onto the spine using various techniques and then the oils and blends soak into the skin and soft tissue, reducing inflammation and eliminating virus and bacteria.
SPORTS MASSAGE
Sports massage is used as a preventive medicine for many athletes before, during and after sporting events. A combination of techniques such as Swedish massage, Shiatsu, Trigger point and Relaxation before an athletic event can prepare the athlete for increased performance. During events to keep the muscles loosened and warmed up to reduce injuries and after a hard workout to rid the body of stress, relieve fatigue and remove toxins and byproducts the body produces in strenuous activity. Massage can make the training and bodybuilding experience much more effective.
SWEDISH MASSAGE
Probably the most popular massage technique combines several techniques including kneading, rolling, effleurage, petrissage, friction, percussive and taping strokes to aid in stress and tension reduction, improve circulation and blood flow, remove toxic wastes, tone muscles and more. All basics strokes flow toward the heart while circulation increases without increasing pulse rate. Many modalities blend well with Swedish Massage.
TRIGGER POINT
Muscle knots, myofascial trigger points and myofascial pain all have one thing in common – it can cause excruciating pain. Trigger Point or Trigger Point Myotherapy is designed to treat and reduce myofascial pain. Trigger point compression is used to reduce swelling, tension, stiffness and pain while increasing range of motion, flexibility, circulation and endurance. At times it is difficult to pin point the exact trigger point location because of the referred pain it can produce. Activating the trigger point can be achieved by the therapist using pressure from the hands, knuckles, elbows or knees.
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