Massage Techniques Offered

 

In my massage practice, I offer various types of massage techniques, most of which are easily incorporated in to a single session. Below are brief descriptions of each.

 

Deep Tissue Massage:This is a massage technique that accesses the deeper layers of musculature and fascia. A person’s muscles must be in a relaxed state in order to effectively perform deep tissue work. If the tissue is contracted and resistant to receiving deep work, deeper layers of musculature cannot be accessed.

 

 

Medical Massage: Medical massage (also known as clinical massage) is a results based massage technique that focuses on treating specific areas of the body to produce specific outcomes. The massage treatment given is based off of a specific diagnosis or condition such as (and not limited to): repetitive stress injuries, carpal tunnel, thoracic outlet, TMJD, rotator cuff injuries, plantar fasciitis, whiplash, pain associated with postural and fascial imbalances, sports injuries and work injuries. 

 

 

Thai Foot Fusion Massage: This massage blends traditional Thai Massage, Hawaiian back/knee walking, Persian Massage and Japanese Shiatsu. The massage recipient wears loose, comfortable clothing and lies on a mat on the floor. The recipient will be positioned into a variety of yoga-like poses, while I apply static and rhythmic pressure with my hands and feet. I provide deep, direct pressure with my knees and feet, while using bamboo poles for balance. This allows me to use my entire body (if necessary) to vary the amount of pressure depending on client needs. The result is deep fascial stretching, mobilization of joints and tissues, decreased muscle tension, and an overall feeling of increased space within the body. If you haven't had one, I highly recommend trying it! 

 

Warm Bamboo Massage: Bamboo Massage uses heated bamboo to knead, roll, drain and soften tissue. The bamboo sticks are smooth, vary in size and shape, feel holistic and soft on the skin and are heated upon applicaion. The bamboo sticks are extremely effective tools and can often provide deeper and firmer pressure than I can with my hands and forearms. 

 

 

Swedish Massage: A very common and well-known massage technique, Swedish massage energizes the body by increasing circulation and range of motion. All flowing strokes are directed toward the heart with the application of oil on the skin. Many people receive Swedish massage for relaxation and improved circulation.

 

 

Massage Cupping: Massage cupping is performed with glass, plastic, rubber, or silicone “cups” that draw tissue upward, creating a negative pressure massage. The cups are either moved along the skin after application of oil, or held in one position, or both. Suction is adjusted depending on individual needs. Massage cupping releases unyielding soft tissue, drains excess fluids and toxins, loosens adhesions and lifts connective tissue, bringing blood flow to stagnant skin and muscles. The marks left by cupping are often mistaken for bruises, which they ARE NOT. Where there is dead, static blood, lymph, cellular debris, pathogenic factors and toxins present in the body, Cupping can leave marks which indicate that the stagnation has been moved from the deeper layers of tissue to the surface. This in turn creates new space for blood, oxygen, living cells and nutrients to enter the area to rejuvenate the tissue. Bruises are generally a result of blunt, downward force trauma, which damages capillaries, allowing blood to enter surrounding interstitial tissues.

 

 

Intra-Oral Massage: Intra-Oral Massage is a manual technique that works on muscles both inside and outside of the mouth, neck and throat. It is greatly effective for people who suffer from TMJD, clenching, grinding, clicking jaw, excessive jaw tension, chronic sinus problems, whiplash, strains from dental surgery or orthodontia, and chronic face and neck pain. The technique can be intense, but not painful. Since it primarily deals with muscles that are rarely touched, they respond to less pressure. Gloves are worn while working inside the mouth.