Massage Therapy (Various Modalities)

DESCRIPTION

Deep Tissue:  Deep tissue massage focuses on the deeper muscles and fascia in the body.  Its goal is to release muscle pain and help loosen the layers of restricted connective tissue.  This helps to reshape posture and promote healthy alignment of the body.

Swedish Massage:  It is the most well known form of massage therapy.  It combines a variety of gliding, kneading, percussive, compressive stokes and mild stretches to promote a sense of well being. Swedish massage increases circulation, flushes toxins, relaxes muscles, reduces body tension and nourishes skin quality.

Abdominal Chi Massage: Abdominal massage strengthens the core of our being.  It works by first detoxifying, then strengthening the systems of the body.  Freeing connective tissue restrictions around internal organs and other abdominal structures can correct postural issues.  Also, by working the belly we are able to help the body to process stored emotions and thus bring greater about a greater sense of self.

Breast Massage:  Therapeutic breast massage is beneficial to overall breast health.  The main goal is to decongest the breast of toxins and cellular waste and increase blood flow within the breasts.  It can help with premenstrual/menopausal tenderness, dense breast tissue and discomforts of pregnancy and breast feeding.  In the case of breast surgeries, breast massage can help accelerate healing.  It can help reduce pain/inflammation, soften/reduce scar tissue, increase circulation and ease post surgical fatigue.

It’s important to know that breast massage is not considered part of regular therapeutic massage.  Your therapist, Trieste Woods, has advanced training in breast massage as is required by the State of Missouri.  It requires a separate written consent in addition to the standard health intake form.

Myofascial Release:   Myofascial Release is gentle, yet powerful bodywork that engages the fascia (connective tissue) in the body.    Normally, fascia has a soft gel like consistency, but when it gets restricted, possibly from trauma or repeated postural habits, it becomes hard like armor. The armor is like a vise grip on muscle, bone, nerves, cells, and organs.  Pain, inflammation and loss of mobility set in.  The job of the therapist is to find and follow the path of the fascial restrictions, then through gentle stretching and sustained pressure allow the fascia to soften.  The work of myofascial release builds on itself as proper mechanical, respiratory and emotional function is restored.

HISTORY

Massage, or some form of healing touch, has been a part of medicine for thousands of years.  In ancient cultures massage was used by physicians, spiritual healers and medicine men to help cure illness and maintain health of their patients.   At its ancient roots, massage started as a method of natural healing.

In the early 20^th century as medical technology and pharmacology grew, massage therapy became sidelined.  Also, overtime as cultural changes and mindset shifts occurred, some regarded massage as a disreputable entity.  In the late 20^th century as society became more interested in wellness therapies and prevention,  massage once again became a sought after therapy.  Now mainstream, massage therapy can be found in private practice businesses, wellness centers and other personal care environments.    And as research continues to endorse the therapeutic benefits of massage, the healthcare industry is responding to public demand by adding massage therapy services to their treatment options.

WHAT DOES IT TREAT?

The general benefits of massage therapy are numerous.  Massage therapy positively affects the circulatory system by increasing blood and lymphatic flow.  Regular massage prevents and relieves muscle fatigue and soreness.  It increases range of motion.    Addressing structural imbalances in the body are possible with massage.  Pain management can be effectively addressed through systematic massage.  It can help accelerate healing from illness and injury.  Stress and tension are relieved through massage.  The skin is also nourished.  And increased body awareness is an added benefit to receiving regular massage therapy.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Massage sessions are anywhere from 30 minutes to 90 minutes.

New clients are encouraged to arrive at least 10 minutes prior to their appointment in order to complete a health/medical intake form.  For new and existing clients a sort consultation is given prior to your session to discuss the reason for your visit.  Based on this conversation, massage therapy may not be indicated for you.  In that case, we will try to direct you to an appropriate health care professional.

Disrobing for massage is not required.  You can undress to your comfort level.  You will be appropriately draped by a sheet.   If your clothes are left on a draping sheet may not be used.  Blankets and a table warmer are used to provide additional comfort and warmth.

During the session, you are encouraged to communicate with your therapist any feedback about the session (pressure, pain, temperature, emotions etc.).  Your therapist will check in with you at different times to make you are doing okay.  After the massage, some “homework” might be suggested to help extend the benefits of your massage.