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What is a massage? Massage is a term describing a variety of techniques using the hands, mechanical or electrical apparatus in order to stimulate or soothe soft tissue of the body for therapeutic purposes.
How does massage therapy compliment chiropractic care? Therapeutic massage has proven to be an effective compliment to chiropractic care. Problems in the muscles and joints can prohibit the natural healing process, and often cause dysfunction and pain. Massage relieves muscle tension and warms up the soft tissues. When muscles are relaxed and restored to their optimal form, correct posture and alignment are more easily sustained. Together, chiropractic care and massage therapy provide you with a more complete and effective system of health care.
How does massage work? Massage works by kneading and stroking muscles to relax them, friction can also be applied to stimulate soft tissues. This therapy can increase blood and lymph circulation while breaking up scar tissue between muscle fibers.
What does massage therapy feel like? Therapeutic massage and its effects vary with each individual. Clothing is usually removed from the treatment while the patient should be relaxed and comfortable. A lubricating cream is used to reduce friction during the circular stroking and compression of soft tissue.
Why is massage used? Massage is often useful in many conditions in which relaxation, the reduction of swelling, and muscle mobilization is desired. Massage can be helpful in overcoming the swelling and pooling of fluids at the site of recent injury or trauma.
How does a patient benefit? Along with many benefits, studies have shown that massage therapy enhances joint and muscle function, improves circulation, increases metabolism and promotes the healing process.
Massage therapy may not be for everyone. Before starting massage, as with any therapy, please consult your doctor before self-administering the therapy.
Four Types of Massage Available
Cranio-Sacral Therapy: A gentle hands on method of evaluating and enhancing the function of the craniospinal system. The physiological body system is comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. CST enhances the body’s natural healing processes to improve the operation of the central nervous system, dissipate the negative effects of stress, enhance health and strengthen resistance to disease. The method generally requires only five grams of pressure, the equivalent weight of a nickel to test for restrictions in various parts of the craniosacral system.
Swedish Massage: A vigorous system of treatment designed to energize the body by stimulating circulation. Five basic strokes, all flowing towards the heart, are used to manipulate the soft tissues of the body. A sheet covers the disrobed client, with only the area being worked on exposed. Therapists use a combination of kneading, rolling, vibration, percussive and tapping movements with the application of a lubricating cream to reduce friction on the skin.
Core Myofascial Therapy: A system of deep massage therapy that promotes better posture and balance. It supports and stabilizes muscles, tendons, ligamen
ts, and bones, producing movement and regulating circulation. The myofascial system helps to eliminate chronic neuromuscular strains and habits caused by injuries, overuse, or immobility. This increases physical awareness, allowing more efficient postural and movement patterns.
Shiatsu: A technique that involves stretching, holding and leaning body weight into various parts of the recipient’s body. This will improve energy flow, blood circulation, flexibility and posture. Pressure and contact is applied through the hands, fingers, forearms, knees and feet while the recipient is sitting or lying in various positions. Treatment is focused along specific channels of subtle body energy called Ki.
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