Massage Therapy

What Is It
Massage is a gentle ‘hands-on’ therapy that can relieve pain by mobilizing the muscle and fascial tissue. In combination with other health therapies, it can help to heal certain conditions and prevent their return. In some cases, massage can reduce or eliminate the need for medication or surgery. Injuries from sport, motor vehicle accidents and repetitive actions and tension from everyday stresses can all cause pain in our bodies.

Massage on healthy tissue is usually a pleasant sensation. Massage in the area of an injury or chronic pain may at first cause some discomfort, but your massage therapist knows how to work within what feels right for you and your body.

What are the Effects of Massage
• Increases circulation which increases the oxygen flow to muscles and removes waste products
• Improves joint mobility and natural lubrication by relieving the muscle tension that restricts movement
• Reduces swelling by gently moving fluid back into circulation
• Reduces stress by relieving muscle tension and creating a feeling of ease in body and mind
• Improves sleep quality, allowing the body to repair and restore itself.

Self Care Techniques
Another benefit from massage is learning how to release tension outside of your massage treatment. Your massage therapist may teach you breathing techniques or therapeutic exercise to increase flexibility and create more efficient movements. You may also learn how to release tension by contracting and releasing muscles, pressing “trigger points”, or using ice and heat.