Therapeutic massage involves working the soft tissue structures of the body to prevent and alleviate pain, discomfort, muscle spasm, and stress; and, to promote health and wellness.
Various techniques used in massage include applying fixed or movable pressure, holding, vibration, rocking, friction, kneading and compression using primarily the hands, although massage therapists do use other areas of the body, such as the forearms and elbows.
Massage therapy improves functioning of the circulatory, lymphatic, muscular, skeletal, and nervous systems and may improve the rate at which the body recovers from injury and illness.
The main types of massage practiced at this clinic are…
Relaxation massage Pressure point therapy Sports massage Lymphatic drainage Pre- and Post- natal therapy
Potential Physical and Mental Benefits of Massage
relax the entire body
loosen tight muscles
relieve tired and aching muscles
increase flexibility and range of motion
diminish chronic pain
calm the nervous system
lower blood pressure
lower heart rate
enhance skin tone
assist in recovery from injuries and illness
strengthen the immune system
reduce tension headaches
reduce mental stress
improve concentration
promote restful sleep
aid in mental relaxation
When would I go to a massage therapist?
Pain is the most common prompt for most people to address a problem and see a massage therapist. However, the everyday stresses that we are placed under may lead to musculoskeletal tension which can lead to more pain. Many people go to massage therapists as a preventive therapy to maintain optimal tissue health and comfort.
Should everyone go to massage therapy?
No, there are instances where massage therapy is not indicated in the treatment of certain conditions. When a new client comes to our clinic it is important that they fill out a patient case history. This will provide the therapist with the knowledge of a client's previous and current health concerns. At this time they will determine if anything that the client has documented is contraindicated for treatment.
If you are unsure of your candidacy for massage treatment please feel free to call our clinic, the members of our team will be happy to help you answer any questions or concerns you might have.
Will my health insurance cover the cost of massage therapy?
Many private health plans do cover the entire or partial cost of your massage therapy visits. You will have to check with your company's benefits administrator to find out what coverage your policy provides.
Will I need a doctor’s referral?
Your health plan may require a doctor’s referral before it can cover the cost of your massage therapy visits. Again, you will have to check with your insurance provider.
Chiropractic and Massage Therapy
Chiropractic and massage therapy strongly complement each other. Chiropractors are specialists in the neuromusculoskeletal system. They diagnose and treat the nerves, muscles, and joints of the body with an emphasis on the spine itself. When a joint is injured, there is a resulting muscle spasm as the body tries to protect the area. Chiropractors often recommend massage therapy to relieve the tight and sore muscles associated with the area they wish to adjust. This relaxing of the muscles can help the joints move more freely and can assist the adjustment and other treatments used by the chiropractor.
