A Typical Massage Session
A typical massage session consists of aromatherapy, swedish massage followed by deep tissue and Neuromuscular therapy when appropriate. Throughout the session I use stretching techniques to help elongate the muscles and free the tissue and blood flow. Clients report a feeling of elation, a new freedom, and feeling like a “limp noodle” after a massage with me. The sessions run anywhere from an hour to an hour and half. You will be provided bottled water after a massage and it is recommended that you drink 6 to 8 glasses extra water throughout the day after a massage. There is the possibility of a little soreness after a deep tissue or neuromuscular massage that should resolve itself within 24 to 48 hours followed by a noticeable relief from pain. Soaking in a tub of epsom salt helps to alleviate any soreness after a massage session. Sometimes an ice compress will be recommended.
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Sessions run $80 for an hour, $100 for 75 minutes and $120 for an hour and half. Home visits are available at $100 an hour with a 90 minute minimum appointment. Chair Massage rates vary depending on number of therapist needed and length of appointment.
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Neuromuscular Therapy
Neuromuscular therapy aims to balance the central nervous system with the musculoskeletal system to correct any disorders brought about as a result of any imbalances between the two. Neuromuscular therapy enhances the function of joints and muscles, and speeds healing by facilitating the release of endorphins.
The most effective type of massage for pain relief is neuromuscular therapy. Neuromuscular therapy is similar to myotherapy in that it uses pressure to release trigger points. The American Academy of Pain Management recognizes this form of massage therapy as an effective treatment for back pain caused by soft tissue injury (such as a muscle strain).
Neuromuscular therapy consists of alternating levels of concentrated pressure on the areas of muscle spasm. The pressure is usually applied with the fingers, knuckles, or elbow. Once applied to a muscle spasm, the pressure is held for ten to twelve seconds.
Muscles that are in spasm will be painful to the touch. The pain is caused by ischemic muscle tissue. Ischemia means the muscle is lacking proper blood flow, usually due to the muscle spasm. This in turn creates the following undesirable process:
Because the muscle is not receiving enough blood, the muscle is also not receiving enough oxygen.
The tissue is unable to remove calcium ions, and contracture continues.
A contracture knot or taut band may form which can be felt by the therapist.
When pressure is applied, disturbing the muscle fibers, the cycle is disrupted and the tissue relaxes usually within seconds.
After the muscle is relaxed, the lactic acid will be released from the muscle, and the muscle should start receiving enough blood and oxygen.
Neuromuscular therapy may feel painful at first but not so uncomfortable that you can’t relax into it. The pressure should alleviate the muscle spasm. At this point, it is extremely important to communicate with the massage therapist regarding the pressure - whether the pressure is too much, too little, getting better, getting worse. The therapist should listen and respond accordingly. The pressure should never be overly painful. In fact, most people describe the pressure as “good pain.”
Key Benefits:
• Release of trigger points
• TMJD relief
• Relief from Sciatica
• Pain Relief
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Deep Tissue Massage
Deep-tissue massage utilizes slow strokes, direct pressure or friction applied across the grain of the muscles with the fingers, thumbs, forearms, or elbows. Deep-tissue massage works deeply into the muscles and connective tissue to release chronic aches and pains; its purpose is to reach the fascia beneath the surface muscles.
Practitioners must have a thorough understanding of the human body and have been trained to administer deep-tissue massage, as injury can occur if the technique is not performed properly. This technique is useful in treating chronic pain, inflammation and injury.
Deep Tissue is similar to swedish in that it uses some of the same strokes but requires more pressure. Sometimes the forearms or elbows may be used in a skilled and controlled manner. Deep tissue is a manipulation of the deeper muscles where many problems originate. It releases the chronic patterns of tension in the body through slow strokes, friction, and deep pressure on the contracted muscles.
Key Benefits:
• Chronic Pain Relief
• Increased Mobility
• Migraine Relief
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Swedish Massage
Generally regarded as the most common form of massage, Swedish massage involves a combination of five basic strokes and concentrates on the muscles and connective tissues of the body for improved circulation, relaxation, pain relief, and overall health maintenance and well-being.
Swedish Massage uses a system of long strokes, kneading, and vibration techniques on the superficial layers of muscles. It promotes general relaxation, improves blood,and lymph flow, and relieves muscle tension.
Key Benefits:
• Great for Relaxation
• Increases Circulation
• Lowers Blood Pressure
• Improves Flexibility and Joint movement
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Thai Massage
Practiced in Thailand for over 2,000 years, Thai massage – also known as assisted yoga massage – works to clear energy blockages and restore balance and harmony to the body. The practice combines typical Westernized massage therapy practices, including myofascial release and trigger point therapy, with light stretching similar to that of yoga. It has even earned the name “lazy man’s yoga.” Like yoga, Thai massage helps to strengthen the body and increase flexibility, while allowing the client to benefit from the relaxation and healing properties of massage.
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Corporate Chair Massage
Seated Chair massage utilizes a special chair while the client remains clothed and no oils or lotions are used.
Deep Tissue and some Thai Massage can be utilized in Chair Massage to achieve chronic pain relief.
Chair massage is common in the workplace environment and used by many major companies with very positive results.
Studies have shown that office workers massaged regularly were more alert, performed better and were less stressed than those who did not receive massage. 80% of disease is stress related and massage reduces stress. Find out how easy it is to have massage brought to your workplace.
Key Benefits:
• Can be brought into the work place
• Improved employee health
• Reduced workplace stress
• Increased cognitive ability
• Decreased Absenteeism
