Therapeutic Massage
Benefits | Effects | What Is Involved?
Benefits
Therapeutic Massage is the healing art of touch. Stress, pain, tension, sore muscles, headaches - these should not be a part of everyday life. Therapeutic massage offers an alternative. Far beyond simply "feeling good", the ancient art of massage has a wide range of proven and subjective benefits such as:
- Relaxation and stress reduction
- Increased circulation from from blood flow
- Relief from muscle tension and strain
- Stimulation of the lymphatic system
- Strengthened immune system
- Increased flexibility and range of motion
- Enhanced general health and well being
Massage involves various techniques and strokes and addresses mainly muscles, ligaments, and tendons, and affects particularly the body's balance of blood and lymph. Integrated techniques range from gentle, relaxing strokes geared to induce a state of total relaxation to more specific trigger point and deep tissue work intended to address specific areas of concern. Stretching and muscle “retraining” techniques may also be incorporated in a more sports–oriented massage.
Effects:
The therapeutic effects of massage are cumulative. From one session to the next, you are able to relax more. Incorporating a routine of massage on a regular basis into your schedule can help change chronic patterns of stress and tension and improve overall health and well being. The release of chronic tension patterns helps to stimulate the release of endorphins (the body's natural pain killers) into the brain and nervous system. These changes will also be felt in your day–to–day life.
What is involved in a massage session?
Environment | Preparation | The Massage | Length | After The Massage
Environment and Evaluation:
The massage can be performed anywhere that is private, comfortable, and peaceful. If it is a first session, you will be asked to fill out a data sheet with basic information and answer questions regarding your health in general, current aches and pains, and history of any major surgeries, etc. This information is used to meet your individual needs and develop the most effective massage program.
Preparation:
The therapist will leave the room to allow you to disrobe. To provide the greatest possible access to areas of stress, it is best to fully undress. However, if you prefer, you may wear loose underpants. Although undressed, your body is completely covered by a sheet throughout the massage, except for the specific area being addressed. Your privacy is respected at all times.
The massage:
Based on your area of concern, the massage therapist will perform an effective blend of massage strokes, starting with overall warming effleurage strokes, followed by more specific kneading and friction strokes. Areas of concern will be addressed with appropriate techniques as indicated by your previous information and what the therapist finds as the massage progresses. A massage should not be painful unless deep pressure is required to release trigger points. Your therapist will rely on you for guidance with regard to the amount of pressure. If you have any concerns or questions at anytime during the massage, or after, talk to your therapist.
Length of Session:
The most common length of time for a massage session is one hour. This provides ample time for an effective, relaxing overall massage. A 30–minute session would primarily involve specific work addressing one or two areas of concern, usually related to injury or chronic pain. A 90–minute session usually allows enough time to accomplish both, overall relaxation as well as addressing specific areas of concern.
After the massage:
When the massage is over, you may feel very relaxed and possibly lightheaded. This will pass and you will feel wonderful! Take care and move slowly at first in getting off the table and dressing. Massage therapy helps the body to eliminate toxins. To provide the greatest benefit from the session, it is important to drink lots of water. In some cases, depending on the level of intensity and muscle tightness you were experiencing prior to the massage, you may feel a little sore the next day. In some cases, you may be advised to apply ice to certain areas that were specifically addressed. In all cases, increased water intake is essential.
Call for an appointment: (562) 429 – 2009