Massage therapy is a general term for several disciplines that utilize many forms of body work techniques to promote healing and health. Massage is done with varying levels of pressure and can be applied using the hands, fingers, elbows and forearms. Therapists target specific tissues including the muscles, tendons and ligaments, as well as other connective tissues.
Proven Benefits of Massage
- Pain relief
- Reduced anxiety and stress
- Increased flow of lymph
- Increased blood flow for healing and breaking up fibroid scar tissue to allow for improved range of motion
There are some contraindications for massage therapy, so we ask all clients to thoroughly complete our paperwork so we can assess your condition and your needs.
Types of Massage Offered
Neuromuscular Massage
Neuromuscular massage is an intense and deeper form of bodywork that consists of focused, concentrated massage on one specific area of the body. The pressure may continue for a period of up to thirty seconds at a time, and is designed to alleviate tension that extends from a ‘trigger point’ into an entire muscle. Through the softening of trigger points, neuromuscular massage aims to reduce chronic pain, increase range of motion, and correct postural distortions. During this massage, therapists use thumbs, elbows and forearms for a deeper pressure. Benefits of this type of massage also include breaking up ‘adhesions’ or scar tissue thus promoting joint mobility and reducing pain.
Swedish Massage
Swedish massage is the most commonly offered and best known type of massage. This massage uses lotions or oils to facilitate smooth, gliding strokes in the direction of blood returning to the heart. Additional Swedish techniques include:kneading, friction, stretching and tapping. Swedish massage uses firm but gentle pressure to promote relaxation, ease muscle tension and improve circulation and flexibility.
Hot Stone Massage
Hot Stone massage is a variation on classic massage therapy. Heated, smooth, flat stones are placed on key points on the body and used with lotion to glide along the muscles of the body. The heat from the stones warms and relaxes the muscles, which allows the therapist to apply deeper pressure, if desired. Hot stone massage is very therapeutic and is ideal for muscular aches and pains, arthritis, fibromyalgia, anxiety, stress and insomnia.
Gua Sha
This healing technique uses specialized shaped tools that are held in the hand of the therapist. Gua Sha is used throughout Asia and it means ‘to rub.’ When rubbing is used with repeated even strokes normal circulation is promoted to muscles, tissues and organs directly beneath the area being treated. This increase in blood flow causes small red spots on the surface of the skin and is a normal part of treatment. Gua Sha promotes blood flow and nutrients which aid in the healing process. After Gua Sha, you should avoid wind and exposure to the sun. Stretching is recommended but a heavy workout should be avoided fot 24 hours.
Cupping Therapy
This technique is widely used in Chinese medicine and has been used for centuries. It focuses on the movement of enery (Chi) in our body through our body pathways called ‘meridians.’ It uses small cups to create localized pressure by a vacuum . This vacuum pull creates warmth and circulation to an area. It also triggers the lymphatic system which clears toxins from the tissues.
How We Bill
All payments are due at the time of service. If your insurance covers massage therapy, we will gladly bill your company, however, the charges will be itemized and will exceed the cash rates. Patients may not be billed for the services and receive the cash discounted price.
Essential oils you may choose from for your massage treatment.
- Peppermint- stimulates and refreshes while decongesting
- Sweet Orange- refreshes and relaxes
- Euclayptus- anti- inflammatory that balances the body
- Vanilla- tranquilizing and relaxing sweet smell
- Lavender– calms and relaxes with anti- inflammatory effects
- Jasmine – eases muscle pain with floral smell
- Lavender/Lemongrass – calms, relaxes, tones and refreshes
- Sweet Orange/Vanilla – soothes achy muscles, refreshes, and relaxes
- Eucalyptus/Geranium – anti-inflammatory and rejuvenates body
- Cinnamon/Vanilla – soothes achy muscles and reduces pain
Whether you want pain relief or relaxation, we can help you. Book an appointment with us and we’ll get you the customized treatment for your unique needs.