Frequently Asked Questions - Therapeutic Massage
What are the benefits of Therapeutic Massage?
Medical research has shown that it can
reduce acute and chronic pain, hasten healing from trauma or injury, reduce edema,
improve posture and flexibility, relax muscle cramps and spasms, relieve
congestion and breathing restrictions, and enhance sports performance. It can also increase
relaxation, immunity, and energy levels, and decrease stress, anxiety, and
depression. It can even have a positive affect on certain medical conditions like high
blood pressure and insomnia, and can help ease the effects of pregnancy and
facilitate post-partum recovery.
How does it work?
Therapeutic Massage works by blocking pain perception, activating
the release of endorphins and serotonin, preventing the formation of scar tissue, and
increasing the flow of lymph and blood. It is the most commonly used type of Complimentary
and Alternative Medicine (CAM) in hospitals in the United States. Along with
Acupuncture and Chiropractic, it is one of the top three CAM modalities used.
How is an evaluation made?
Our sessions begin with a discussion of your
symptoms and health history. This is followed by a physical assessment, utilizing
techniques like postural analysis and palpation, which lets the Massage Therapist know
the patterns that currently exist within your body and where to focus the treatment for
the greatest results. Symptoms often manifest in places other than the actual site of
pain, and this assessment allows us to track these issues back to their origin.
What is a session like?
Sessions start with a discussion of your
symptoms and goals. This is followed by a physical assessment. Next, the Massage
Therapist will exit the room so that you can get ready and get under the covers. Some
people disrobe partially or entirely and some leave on their undergarments. Whatever you are
comfortable with is fine. If you are seeking a massage that focuses on only one
particular area of the body, you may opt to remain partially dressed. Either way,
you will always be fully draped with sheets and blankets except for the area that is
currently being worked on. Our massages typically integrate a wide range of techniques,
from gentle sweeping motions to focused pressure. The Massage Therapist takes into
account your preferences and goals, and only applies pressure as deep as your body
allows. As your body relaxes naturally, the Massage Therapist can access different
layers of tissue, releasing your pain at the root. This gentle process brings about
relaxation, an essential part of healing. Some soreness may result after a
treatment, but should subside after 24 to 48 hours. Drinking plenty of water and
taking a warm bath with epsom salts can help reduce any temporary discomforts.
What types of Therapeutic Massage do you offer?
We
offer massage that combines many different types of therapeutic
techniques including Connective Tissue Therapy, Deep Tissue, Myofascial Release, Neuromuscular
Therapy, Polarity Therapy, Reflexology, Swedish, and Trigger Point Therapy. We also
offer Maternity Massages for women in their second and third trimesters. Our massages are always
customized according to your preferences and areas of concern.
Click here to learn more about the different massage techniques that we use.