About the Massage Modalities
Massage therapy is an accepted part of many physical rehabilitation programs, and has proven beneficial for many chronic conditions, including: back pain, arthritis, bursitis, fatigue, high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, restricted scar tissue. Massage also helps relieve the stress and tension of everyday living that can lead to disease and illness. The specific techniques applied through massage increase circulation in the treated area, bringing more oxygen, nutrients, and energy to the area and revitalizing the tissues. Toxins and other waste materials are eliminated and the body’s natural endorphins are released. Several different techniques account for the many variations in massage. The application of these techniques may include, but is not limited to, stroking, kneading, tapping, compression, vibration, rocking, friction, and pressure to the muscular structure or soft tissues of the human body. This may also include non-forceful passive or active movement and/or application of techniques intended to affect the energetic systems of the body.
Swedish Massage
Swedish Massage is one of the most well-known massage techniques, is a system of treatment designed to energize the body by stimulating circulation. Through techniques such as effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, vibration, compression and friction, the physical structures of the body are impacted. An increasing number of research studies show massage reduces heart rate, lowers blood pressure, increases blood circulation and lymph flow, relaxes muscles, improves range of motion, and increases endorphins. Although therapeutic massage does not increase muscle strength, it can stimulate weak, inactive muscles and, thus, partially compensate for the lack of exercise and inactivity resulting from illness or injury. In addition, massage can reduce stress, encourage relaxation and promote better body awareness
Orthopedic Massage
Orthopedic Massage involves therapeutic assessment, manipulation and movement of soft tissues to reduce or eliminate pain and dysfunction. The multi-disciplinary approach includes functional assessment, myofascial release, neuromuscular therapy, scar tissue mobilization, proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation, stretching, neuromuscular re-education, strengthening, and client home care techniques. This modality is often more active for clients than classical massage since active range of motion, stretching and muscle testing is involved. Clients find that various structural issues, even chronic complaints, can be resolved in only few sessions – sometimes even within one session. The modality combines elements of sports and medical massage to treat soft tissue pain, injury and scar tissue adhesions. In addition to the benefits of traditional massage, such as relaxation and increased circulation, orthopedic massage aims to dissolve adhesions; normalize the position of soft tissue and release its torsion; lengthen the connective tissue; hydrate the joints, restoring their natural lubrication and normal biomechanics; facilitate normal neurological function by muscle energy techniques; and release entrapment of the peripheral nerves. Clients are empowered to work with their bodies to attain maximum functionality and range of motion.
Because of the active nature of this modality, it is recommended that clients bring loose-fitting shorts and a t-shirt in which they can receive treatment.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is quickly becoming a household word. From soaps to lotions, detergents to candles, aromatherapy is playing a bigger role in our world. But how does it work? Smells trigger production of different neurochemicals that affect moods and body states. These hormones are how our emotions impact the physical body. When we have fear, the hormone adrenaline is released which speeds up our heart rate, slows our digestion and increases muscle tonicity. When we are relaxed, other hormones are released which slow our heart rate, improve our digestion and increase our sense of well-being. Modalities like aromatherapy can reduce or enhance the release of certain hormones in the body and enable the body to begin healing itself. The oil aromas are perceived by the nerve endings at the back of the nose and signals are passed to the limbic system in the brain, stimulating an important part of the limbic system – the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus governs the pituitary gland, which controls hormone release throughout the body affecting organ function, digestion, mood and more. In addition to being received in the body via smell, the chemical components of essential oils have a variety of topical effects such as reduction of inflammation (methyl salicylate found in Wintergreen oil) or pain reduction (menthol - an analgesic found in Peppermint oil).
Reflexology
Reflexology is founded on the theory that points on the feet correspond to areas or organ systems of the body. These reflex points also correspond with the acupuncture points of Traditional Chinese Medicine and, thus, treatment of these points can affect the body's energy meridian system. Ailments in these meridians are thought to have physical manifestations in the feet. Thickened, spongy, hard, crystalline or tender areas on the feet are indicators of body stress and/or dysfunction. Reflexology involves application of pressure to these reflex zones to stimulate body organs and relieve areas of congestion. Similar to acupressure principles, reflexology works with the body's energy flow to stimulate self-healing and maintain balance in physical function. It is used to reduce pain, increase relaxation and stimulate circulation of blood and lymphatic fluids. It is especially useful in stress-related illness and emotional disorders. Reflexology is also convenient in cases where an area of the body is traumatized or diseased to the extent that direct manipulation is not appropriate.
Craniosacral Therapy
Craniosacral Therapy is a gentle, non-invasive method of evaluating and enhancing the function of a physiological body arrangement called the craniosacral system. Developed by John E. Upledger, D.O., O.M..M., this therapy enhances the body's natural healing processes and has proven effective in treating a wide range of medical problems associated with pain and dysfunction. The craniosacral system consists of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. It extends from the bones of the skull, face and mouth - which make up the cranium - down to the sacrum or tailbone. Since this system influences the development and function of the brain and spinal cord, any imbalance or dysfunction in the craniosacral system could cause sensory, motor or neurological disabilities. By complementing the body's natural healing processes, CST is increasingly used as a preventive health measure for its ability to bolster resistance to disease, and is effective for a wide range of medical problems associated with pain and dysfunction, including: migraine headaches, chronic neck and back pain, motor-coordination impairments, autism, central nervous system disorders, chronic fatigue, emotional difficulties, stress and tension-related problems, TMJ Syndrome, neurovascular or immune disorders, fibromyalgia and other connective tissue disorders.
For your consideration . . .
Illness and discomfort in the body can be different ways for us to experience this life and to grow in new ways. Physical healing may or may not be part of your overall journey, but regardless of the physical outcome of your treatment session, you will leave feeling more balanced, clearer and more aware of yourself and your state of being.
Practice Member Login
Free Newsletter
Dr. Dennis Asks...
