Manual Lymph Drainage
Myofascial Release
Deep Tissue Neuromuscular Therapy
Trigger Point Therapy
Seated Chair
Swedish Relaxation
Sports Massage
Reflexology
Ear Candling
Medical Massage
Prenatal Massage
Integrated Massage

Manual Lymph Drainage was developed in Europe in the 1930's by Drs. Emil and Estrid Vodder, Manual Lymph Drainage (MLD) is a safe, effective, yet gentle approach designed to activate and cleanse the human lymphatic system. The process involves the use of subtle manual maneuvers to aid in the recirculation of the lymphatic flow.  The lymphatic system is a vital part of the immune system in the body. Manual Lymphatic Drainage assists in the operation of the lymphatic system. It is very different from other techniques.

Myofascial Release Therapy is a gentle and very effective hands on manual therapy technique that uses sustained pressure into restrictions in the fascial system for elimination and restoration of motion and function to the body. Myofascial Release can sometimes facilitate the emergence of emotional patterns and belief systems that are no longer relevant or are impeding progress. First, an assessment is made by visually analyzing the human frame, followed by the palpation of the tissue texture of various fascial layers. Upon locating an area of fascial tension, gentle pressure is applied in the direction of the restriction. Myofascial release is an effective therapeutic approach in the relief of cervical pain, back pain, fibromyalgia, scoliosis, neurological dysfunction, restriction of motion, chronic pain and headaches. Restrictions in the Myofascial system may be caused by trauma, inflammation, or posture, and results in abnormal pressure on nerves, muscles, blood vessels, osseous structures and organs.

Neuromuscular Therapy This is a system of soft tissue manipulation techniques that balance the nervous system (brain, spinal cord, and nerves) with the structure of the musculoskeletal system. Using very slow, deliberate and deep pressure and movement the injured areas and tissues are released and re-educated. This comprehensive program of soft-tissue manipulation balances the body's central nervous system with the musculoskeletal system. Based on neurological laws that explain how the central nervous system initiates and maintains pain, the goal is to help relieve the pain and dysfunction by understanding and alleviating the underlying cause. Neuromuscular therapy can help individuals who experience distortion and biomechanical dysfunction, which is often a symptom of a deeper problem. It is also used to locate and release spasms and hypercontraction in the tissue, eliminate trigger points that cause referred pain, rebuild the strength of injured tissues, assist venous and lymphatic flow and restore postural alignment, proper biomechanics and flexibility to the tissues.

Trigger Point Therapies This refers to any or several systems of working with trigger points. Trigger points are tender congested spots in muscle tissue, which may radiate pain to other areas. The techniques used in trigger point therapies are similar to those used in shiatsu or acupressure, but trigger point therapies are based on western anatomy and physiology. 

On-Site Seated or Chair Massage This refers to a 10 to 20 minute bodywork session, usually a deep tissue-based routine for specific areas requested, done in a special chair in which the client sits facing toward the face cradle, exposing the scalp, shoulders, neck, back and hips. Pioneered originally as a modality for the workplace, it has expanded into many other environments, and is now becoming a fixed operation in storefronts, health food stores, airports and other locations. It is a great way to increase productivity and lower health costs. Most importantly chair massage will leave everyone in the office feeling refreshed, revitalized and appreciated.  It is also an excellent way of attracting and keeping a quality workforce. Chair Massage is one of the few benefits that employees can enjoy while actually on the job. On-Site Chair Massage helps to create a more relaxed atmosphere as well as being a great way to express your thanks for a job well done.  Treatments have been shown to arrest and even reverse the effects of repetitive stress / motion syndromes.

Swedish Massage A soft tissue manipulation modality that utilizes three primary techniques to accomplish its objective Effleurage: long gliding stroke Petrissage: kneading soft tissue Tapotement: percussion.  Clients are most familiar with this. Swedish Massage is generally done with the aid of oils and incorporates long, smooth, slow strokes creating a very relaxing experience. One of the most commonly taught and well-known massage techniques, Swedish massage is a vigorous system of treatment designed to energize the body by stimulating circulation. Five basic strokes, all flowing toward the heart, are used to manipulate the soft tissues of the body. The disrobed client is covered by a sheet, with only the area being worked on exposed. Therapists use a combination of kneading, rolling, vibrational, percussive and tapping movements, with the application of oil, to reduce friction on the skin. The many benefits of Swedish massage may include generalized relaxation, dissolution of scar tissue adhesions and improved circulation, which may speed healing and reduce swelling from injury.

Sports Massage Sports massage is an adaptation of Swedish massage. Its purpose is to prepare athletes for sporting activities and/or help them recover from the exertion of that activity.  Sports massage used as part of a warm-up or cool-down routine, and can significantly help reduce the risk of injuries. BEFORE exercise, stretches and brisk rocking and shaking provide great stimulation in preparation for activity. AFTER work-out a massage can also reduce the build up of Lactic acid, which is what makes you sore a few days later. During exercise, brisk movements and compressions along with stretches, help to increase blood flow. After exercising, slower movements along with stretches and long strokes help to relax the client.

Reflexology A system of massaging the feet, or feet and hands, with the intention of affecting other parts of the body. The feet and hands are regarded much like maps of the body, with points on the feet and hands corresponding to organs and tissue in the body.

Ear Candling An alternative ‘Old Home Remedy’ for ear cleaning.  Hollow candles are used to clean the ears and are believed to help various ear disorders.  There are frequent reports of relief from ear wax build-up, hearing problems, ringing in the ears, sinus problems, headaches and even infections. Using candles is generally more comfortable and less expensive than conventional ear cleaning where water is forced into the ear canal.

Medical Massage A massage program designed with and under the supervision of a chiropractor or physician's prescription, most usually due to a Motor Vehicle Accident or Worker’s Compensation Injury. The techniques are generally administered only to the affected muscles group areas.

Prenatal Massage Prenatal massage focuses on alleviating common physical discomforts attributed to pregnancy including swelling, hip/joint pain, and muscular aches. Massage helps to increase circulation, ease muscular stress, enhances joint and muscle function, and relaxes both mind and body.

Integrated Massage is what I call the multiple massage techniques I use mainly for injury recovery. Integrated massage uses techniques including Myofascial Release therapy (J F Barnes), Neuromuscular therapy (St. John’s NMT ), and Manual soft tissue massage therapy (preparatory muscle warming procedure to reduce spasms and warm the affected soft tissues .including Effleurage, Petrissage and/or Tapotement (stroking, compression, percussion) The goal is to reduce muscle spasms, increase flexibility and increase circulation in muscles and fascia, which should reduce pain, reduce hypertonicity and increase range of motion. Therapy usually includes 15 min. increments of Neuromuscular therapy; 15 min. increments of Myofascial Release, and 15 min. increments of manual soft tissue massage to warm the muscles.  Sessions are typically one hour.  This type of medical massage therapy includes techniques to strengthen, work out and stretch the injured tissues and assist with injury recovery. These therapies used together with additional exercises given to clients to aid self recovery can influence scar tissue as it forms so as to regain greater function than would otherwise be possible.

Whether due to auto accidents, sports injuries, work related injuries or general life patterns, clients all have pain as a result. Soft tissue damage in the body can result in: acupressure points blocked from normal function, fibrous scar tissue, spasmed muscles due to misalignment, pain in trigger point referral zones, ischemia and the resulting waste products, inflammation of tissues and nerves, structural distortion caused by spasmed muscles and tightened connective tissue, nerve entrapment caused by tightened soft tissue, overstretched/overcontracted soft tissue (muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and nerves), torn muscle fibers and fascia, and splinting of soft tissue to immobilized injured areas. Overuse, repetitive motion, and postural imbalances may also lead to chronic and debilitating pain. Therapeutic Massage Therapy can help to correct these problems thereby helping to eliminate pain.

All information available on this Web site is intended for general knowledge only and is not a substitute for diagnosis, medical advice, assessment or treatment of any of the conditions discussed herein. You should always consult with your medical practitioner or specialist regarding medical care and seek their opinion in relation to your medical condition. Neither the author nor the publisher assume any liability for consequences believed to result from the treatments, techniques, routines or anything else described in and throughout this web site. Individuals involved in the operation of this site are not responsible for your use of this information or for any information provided in linked sites, articles or pages.  If you are experiencing pain, please consult your physician before you attempt to practice or use any of the information in this web site.  No claim is made for any cure of any disease or ailment.