Massage Therapy

The practice of massage therapy is the assessment of the soft tissue and joints of the body and the treatment and prevention of physical dysfunction and pain of the soft tissue and joints by manipulation to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function, or relieve pain. (Massage Therapy Act 1991)

 

Massage Therapy includes:

 

General Swedish Massage

General Swedish Massage techniques including effleurage (gliding), petrissage (kneading), tapotement (rhythmic tapping) and vibration/shaking are used to decrease tension in muscles, increase circulation and reduce overall stress.

 

Deep Tissue Massage

A more intense, focused type of massage using specific techniques to address chronic muscle tension and adhesions in deeper tissue structures of the muscle and connective tissue [fascia].

 

Myofascial Release

Manual stretch techniques applied to the connective tissue (fascia) surrounding muscles and other structures in the body in
order to decrease restrictions that result from injuries, stress and poor posture.

 

Lymphatic Drainage Techniques

Gentle and specific techniques are applied to the body in order to facilitate lymph movement and drainage. Used for causes of edema such as lymphedema and swelling resulting from injury.

 

Breathing Techniques

Techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing can increase relaxation, assist in stress management, aid digestion, increase
overall energy levels and decrease muscular tension in the body.

 

Hot Stone Massage

Warmed basalt stones along with Swedish massage techniques are used to help relieve pain, improve circulation and relax
muscle tension.

 

Reiki

A relaxing, non-invasive holistic healing approach that eases pain and stress by balancing the Chakras of the body through gentle touch on or above the body.

 

Therapeutic massage can address symptoms and provide relief for the following conditions:
  • Arthritis
  • Muscular imbalances
  • Asthma
  • Back pain
  • Nerve compression syndromes including Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Chronic and acute pain
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Post surgical scar tissue
  • Gastrointestinal disorders
  • Headaches
  • Immune system disorders
  • Insomnia
  • Joint sprains, dislocations
  • Motor vehicle accidents (whiplash)
  • Myofascial pain • Pregnancy associated symptoms
  • Repetitive strain injuries
  • Slow growth of premature infants
  • Circulatory problems
  • Sports injuries
  • Stress, anxiety and mood disorders
  • Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) Dysfunction and other jaw problems.

The benefits of massage therapy go beyond the physical body. The efficacy of massage therapy in treating stress is well supported by research. It helps to reduce emotional stress, which in turn will reduce or eliminate the production of stress chemicals in the body. Stress chemicals (the fight or flight response) can have negative effects when produced over long periods of time. When certain massage techniques are applied slowly and rhythmically to the back or neck for example, we can help quiet the mind and bring a sense of body awareness back to the person. The communication of caring touch is also recognized by health professionals as an important part of both physical and emotional pain relief.

For your first appointment, please arrive 10-15 minutes early. Kindly provide at least 24-hours notice of cancellation, in which case no charge will be applied. Most extended health plans provide full or partial coverage for treatments. Gift certificates are available upon request