Massage Therapy is defined as the systematic manual or mechanical manipulations of the soft tissues of the body by such movements as rubbing, kneading, pressing, rolling, lifting and stretching. Benefits of massage can include promotion of circulation of the blood and lymph fluid, relaxation of muscles, relief from pain, restoration of metabolic balance, and other benefits both physical and mental.

Massage therapy is an excellent way to relieve stress and anxiety as it relieves fatigue, reduces tension, calms the nervous system and promotes a sense of relaxation and renewed energy.

Over the years massage therapy has evolved, in the eye of the public, from being only a “feel good” relaxation experience to also include the more medically oriented therapeutic approach. Massage therapists must know human anatomy and physiology to understand the structure and function of the tissues being treated.

There exists a desire for therapies that are effective, less drug-related in nature and that offer more chances for the clients’ participation in their own healthcare. This can be realized with massage therapy.

Massage therapy can include any or all of the following treatment modalities:

Swedish Massage
These techniques cover a wide range of manipulations of the soft tissues of the body. These soft tissues include skin, muscle, tendons, associated fascia, ligaments and joint capsules.

Hydrotherapy
The internal or external use of water as a liquid, as ice, or as a steam to prevent and treat disease or physical trauma or to be used as part of daily healthcare.

Remedial Exercise
After a thorough assessment the therapist designs an appropriate remedial exercise program to address the present state of fitness and long term goals. Remedial exercise is used by the therapist during a treatment and as self-care for the client to increase range of motion or increase muscular strength or endurance.

Stretching
Used to lengthen soft tissue during a treatment or as self-care by the client. Passive stretching is performed while the client is relaxed, and the therapist stretches any shortened connective tissue. Self-stretching is when the client actively stretches her own tissues to attempt to return to normal function.

Breathing and Relaxation techniques
Helps reduce stress-related conditions such as anxiety and insomnia and decreases the perception of pain. Proper breathing uses the abdomen and respiratory diaphragm to take in the largest volume of air with the least amount of effort. Shallow breathers have a decreased oxygen intake which can result in physical dysfunction.

Rhythmic Mobilizations
A series of “rocking or shaking” movements of varied amplitudes, performed rhythmically to increase mobility at a restricted joint and to assess any restrictions of motion at any particular joint.