There are several different techniques that your massage therapist is capable of providing. Throughout every massage all of the following techniques can be integrated into your treatment. Each massage session is individually tailored to your specific needs using a combination of the types of massage below.
Therapeutic / Wellness Massage: Therapeutic massage involves the manipulation of the soft tissue structures of the body to prevent and alleviate pain, discomfort, muscle spasm, and stress; and, to promote health and wellness. AMTA defines Massage as, "a manual soft tissue manipulation that includes holding, causing movement, and/or applying pressure to the body."
Deep Tissue Massage: Deep tissue techniques are generally designed for more focused massage work. Working a specific joint, muscle or muscle group, the practitioner can access deeper layers of the soft tissue. Starting superficially and easing into the depth of the muscle slowly often allows more movement. If the pressure is applied too deeply or too quickly, the muscle may tighten to protect that area, and that is why slower strokes are used throughout a deep tissue massage to allow better penetration without unnecessary muscular damage. The most commonly used 'tools' during deep tissue massage may include reinforced fingers, knuckles, a flat elbow, opposing thumbs, the heel of the hand or foot, and the forearm. Deep tissue is similar to Myofascial Release. Deep Tissue Massage is also used as alternative treatment for Parkinson’s disease.
Myofascial Release: Myofascial Release refers to the manual massage technique for stretching the fascia and releasing bonds between fascia, integument, and muscles with the goal of eliminating pain, increasing range of motion and equilibrioception. Injuries, stress, trauma, overuse and poor posture can cause restriction to fascia. This technique is usually done by applying shear compression or tension in various directions, or by skin rolling.
Sports Massage: This massage enhances athletic performance and recovery. Through specific massage techniques provided throughout the athletes training regiment as well as before and after their athletic event. This type of massage can greatly increase performance and decrease recovery time.
Trigger Point Therapy: This can also be called pressure point massage. A trigger point is an area of a muscle that may refer pain sensations to other parts of the body. Manual pressure is applied to these points. With the proper pressure, duration and location, immediate release of tension and improved muscular functioning may occur.
