Massage Therapy
What is Massage Therapy?
"The practice of massage therapy is the assessment of 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
Benefits of Massage...
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Physically relaxes the body
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Calms the nervous system
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Increases energy
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Loosens tight muscles
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Relieves tired and aching muscles
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Stretches connective tissue
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Reduces pain, including chronic pain
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Increases red blood cell count
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Speeds up the removal of metabolic waste
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Stimulates the release of endorphins
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Relieves cramps and muscle spasms
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Reduces joint stiffness
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Increases flexibility and range of motion
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Speeds recovery from injuries and illness
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Strengthens the immune system
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Reduces swelling
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Reduces Scarring
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Improves posture
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Decreases muscular deterioration
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Reduces stress
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Improves overall health and well being
What you can expect from your first appointment...
The most significant part of your first appointment is a thorough assessment of your health, and particularly, the biomechanical profile where painful dysfunction is correlated with posture, exercise and lifestyle patterns. This is done through an initial intake and interview, and then proceeded by an assessment and orthopoedic testing. Once the dysfunction is identified, manual therapy techniques are employed to reduce pain and improve function. After the session, the therapist will then recommend exercise, rehabilitation therapy reinforcement, and/ or lifestyle changes to manage or prevent recurrence of the condition.
Depending on the type of treatment received, it is normal to feel sore afterwards, especially the next day. Soreness from a medical massage treatment can last anywhere from 1-4 days. Massage is not always suitable for everyone. Please consult your therapist to find out if a massage is contraindicated for you. If you have any questions or concerns, never hesitate to voice them to your therapist.
Massage is beneficial for the following conditions...
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Headaches/ Migraines
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Whiplash
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Back/ neck pain
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Sprains/ strains
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Muscle spasm
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Arthritis
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Tendinitis
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Bursitis
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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
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Edema
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TMJ dysfunction
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Neurological conditions (Stroke, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinsons, etc)
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Sciatica
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Neuritis/ neuralgia
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Insomnia
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Asthma/ emphysema
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Chronic bronchitis
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Work related injuries
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Sports related injuries
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Disc herniation
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Gastrointestinal disorders
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Post surgery rehabilitation
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Painful menses/ dysmenorrhea
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Chronic fatigue
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Maintenance and preventive care