MASSAGE THERAPY
Massage therapy uses manipulation of the body's soft tissues to help relieve everyday stress and pain. It can help improve range of motion and muscle function by increasing circulation and reducing exercise or stress-related discomfort.
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Various techniques are used in massage therapy to achieve optimal results. Our resident massage therapist, Emily, routinely uses a wide range of techniques in each session depending on patient preference and clinical presentation. Some examples of the techniques she prefers are described below:
SWEDISH MASSAGE
Swedish massage is widely used and very popular as it is a 'gentler' type of technique. It is a relaxing massage which aims to dissolve scar tissue adhesions and improve circulation within the soft tissue of the body.
ISCHEMIC COMPRESSION
Ischemic compression is commonly used for the treatment of myofascial trigger points by applying sustained pressure to inactivate trigger points in the soft tissue.
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MYOFASCIAL RELEASE
There are 2 main types of myofascial release:
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Direct release (deep tissue myofascial release therapy) - uses specific forces to release fascia with the aim at improving extensibility and mobility of the soft tissue
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Indirect release - uses less pressure than direct release but still promotes the fascia to unwind in order to improve extensibility and mobility of the soft tissue
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TRIGGER POINT MASSAGE
Trigger point massage releases or softens muscle knots to reduce their size and associated pain. This release happens by applying various levels of pressure from several directions to the muscle knots, followed by guided stretching of the affected areas through a complete range of motion.
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PROPRIOCEPTIVE NEUROMUSCULAR FACILITATION (PNF)
PNF is an advanced massage technique which uses a combination of passive stretching and isometric contractions (gentle resistance) to break neuromuscular holding patterns to help reset muscle holding patterns and overall muscle length limitations.
