Medical Massage is based on the mechanical, chemical process and systemic effects of the
pain mechanism of soft tissue injury. Specific techniques are used to reverse the cyclic
process of the soft tissue pain and injury (the pain spasm pain cycle) by #1-initiating a
process to shut off the sustained contraction.
#2- initiate the process of diffusion of waste/toxins from tissues cells to blood. Practitioners of
medical massage have a strong background in anatomy and the contraindications of specific
massage techniques related to various medical conditions. Medical massage therapists have
experience working under the direction of or at the request of physicians delivering a
prescribed manual therapy technique in a specific area in for certain time intervals to achieve
the best therapeutic benefit. Some insurance policies may cover medical massage or
reimburse you when you have and indicated diagnosis and prescription.
Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT)-NMT is massage applied to specific muscles, often used to
increase blood flow, release knots of muscle tension, or release pain/pressure on nerves.
This therapy is also known as trigger point, because it uses a concentrated finger pressure is
applied to "trigger points" to alleviate muscular pain. Many techniques may be used as a NMT
when they are applied medically.
Deep-Tissue Technique- Deep-tissue utilizes slow strokes, by lengthening, spreading and
separating specific muscles, from one point of attachment to another. Direct pressure or
friction applied across the grain of the muscles with the fingers, thumbs or elbows.
Deep-tissue massage works deeply into the muscles and connective tissue to release chronic
aches and pains; its purpose is to reach the fascia beneath the surface muscles. Practitioners
must have a thorough understanding of the human body and have been trained to administer
deep-tissue massage, as injury can occur if the technique is not performed properly. This
technique is useful in treating chronic pain, inflammation and injury.
Trigger-Point Therapy-Trigger points are areas of soft tissue in the body characterized by
local pain, tightness, and tenderness. Often trigger points develop because of referred pain,
or pain from another source that has manifested itself in a trigger point. Trigger points rarely
refer pain to other areas. Trigger-point therapy seeks first to identify trigger points, and then
apply steady, appropriate pressure to the point to release it. This is usually followed by
massage to the surrounding area to help treat the cause of the trigger point. Clients are
encouraged to drink a lot of water following a trigger-point therapy session to flush out any
toxins released when the trigger point is released.
Connective Tissue Massage -Connective tissue massage is another term for myofascial
release in that it involves working with the body's fascia, or soft tissue, to relieve pain,
tightness, and discomfort. The idea behind connective tissue massage is that restriction in
one area of the body negatively affects other areas of the body. Practitioners of this
technique "hook" their fingers into the connective tissue and utilize pulling strokes to lengthen
the area. Benefits include pain reduction, tension relief, improved mobility and stress
reduction.
Myofascial Release (MFR)-A very effective, no pain ways to release stuck places in the
body, without the after soreness of deep tissue, resulting the same if not better results.
Myofascial release deals with the fascia, or connective tissue, of the body. The fascia is
interconnected to every other part of the body, and actually helps to support the body's very
structure, including the musculoskeletal system. When injury, inflammation, or physical or
emotional trauma occurs, the fascia can become tight and cause pain and/or restricted range
of motion. Myofascial release -- as its name suggests -- aims to release the fascia and return
it to a state of normalcy by applying gentle pressure to the restricted areas. MFR can help
with a number of conditions, including chronic pain, headaches, and stress-related illnesses.
Soft-Tissue Massage-Soft-tissue massage is a generic term for any modality that is used to
treat the soft tissues in the body, including muscle, fascia, and scar tissue. Common
modalities used include Swedish, myofascial release, deep tissue, trigger point therapy,
connective tissue massage.
Swedish Massage-Generally regarded as the most common form of massage, Swedish
massage involves a combination of five basic strokes and concentrates on the muscles and
connective tissues of the body for improved circulation, relaxation, pain relief, and overall
health maintenance and well-being. Swedish massage does not involve deep-tissue work.
Prenatal Massage-Prenatal, or pregnancy, massage uses gentle techniques to help
alleviate some of the ailments associated with pregnancy, including lower back, neck and
shoulder pain; fatigue; joint tenderness; and stretch marks. Prenatal massage can help
improve circulation, promote stress reduction and relaxation, and much more. Depending on
the comfort level of the recipient, it is usually done in the lateral recumbent position, with
pillows for support. Prone position, or face down is not recommended.
Sports Massage-Sports massage therapies are both preventative and therapeutic, and
used during warm ups, training and competition to treat and/or aid in the prevention of
injuries; help improve flexibility, range of motion, and performance; and aid in mental clarity.
Massage therapists, are part of virtually every professional sports team and are often
privately employed by athletes both novice and professional. This can be administered prior
to or post activity.
Geriatric Massage-Geriatric massage involves treating the elderly, often in resident-care
facilities, and addressing their needs related to aging, depression and illness. Geriatric
massage is usually shorter in duration, and involves the application of gentle techniques to
facilitate pain relief, relaxation, and an overall feeling of wellness.
On Site Table/Chair Massage-Chair massage, also known as seated massage, is
administered on site at various locations, including health fairs, airports, shopping malls and
in corporate settings. Clients remain fully clothed and treatments generally last from 15-30
minutes. Chair massage is usually limited to the back, neck and arms. If space allows, a table
is preferred and is often more comfortable and requires less time to make adjustments . The
Table also accommodates clients of all shapes and sizes, where as the chair has its limitations.
Allied Modalities:
BENEFICIAL EFFECTS OF USING HEAT THERAPIES:
Applying heat to the body has the effect of dilating the blood vessels, increasing the
metabolic rate of the heated area, and relaxing the muscles on a deep level. The use of
heat is an important therapeutic tool and often crucial to the massage experience.
Heat can deliver nurturing comfort to the client while enabling a far deeper state of
relaxation than massage alone.
Pain relief is a specific goal for most massage therapy sessions and much discomfort
can be alleviated by tapping into the body's own parasympathetic nervous system to
facilitate the release of endorphins, the body's own "feel good" pain reliever.
In addition to causing the brain to create comfort hormones, an important
physiologic effect of applying heat to painful areas of the body is the reduction of pain
by interference with pain transfer mechanisms. In the body, the pain and temperature
sensing pathways are close together. When the heat message occupies these pathways,
the pain message becomes distorted and the pain is diminished.
Reflexology- This technique is based on a system of points on the hands, feet and ears that
correspond, or "reflex," to other areas of the body. Similar in theory to acupressure and is believed
that applying appropriate pressure to these points stimulates the flow of energy, thus helping to
relieve pain or blockages throughout the entire body. A very pleasurable form of bodywork,
Reflexology is also used to ease stress and promote relaxation.
Hydrotherapy-Hydrotherapy involves the use of water in all its forms (internally and externally)
to assist in the healing process. These water therapies can include steamed towels, body wraps, the
application of ice or heat packs, the use of a whirlpool, colonic irrigation and more.
Polarity Therapy-According to the American Polarity Therapy Association, "Polarity therapy is
a comprehensive health system involving energy-based bodywork, diet, exercise and self-awareness.
It works with the Human Energy Field, electromagnetic patterns expressed in mental, emotional
and physical experience. In Polarity Therapy, health is viewed as a reflection of the condition of
the energy field, and therapeutic methods are designed to balance the field for health benefit."* The
technique's pioneer, Dr. Randolph Stone, a strong proponent of the healing powers of energy,
utilized polarity therapy in his practice until retiring at the age of 84 in 1974.
pain mechanism of soft tissue injury. Specific techniques are used to reverse the cyclic
process of the soft tissue pain and injury (the pain spasm pain cycle) by #1-initiating a
process to shut off the sustained contraction.
#2- initiate the process of diffusion of waste/toxins from tissues cells to blood. Practitioners of
medical massage have a strong background in anatomy and the contraindications of specific
massage techniques related to various medical conditions. Medical massage therapists have
experience working under the direction of or at the request of physicians delivering a
prescribed manual therapy technique in a specific area in for certain time intervals to achieve
the best therapeutic benefit. Some insurance policies may cover medical massage or
reimburse you when you have and indicated diagnosis and prescription.
Neuromuscular Therapy (NMT)-NMT is massage applied to specific muscles, often used to
increase blood flow, release knots of muscle tension, or release pain/pressure on nerves.
This therapy is also known as trigger point, because it uses a concentrated finger pressure is
applied to "trigger points" to alleviate muscular pain. Many techniques may be used as a NMT
when they are applied medically.
Deep-Tissue Technique- Deep-tissue utilizes slow strokes, by lengthening, spreading and
separating specific muscles, from one point of attachment to another. Direct pressure or
friction applied across the grain of the muscles with the fingers, thumbs or elbows.
Deep-tissue massage works deeply into the muscles and connective tissue to release chronic
aches and pains; its purpose is to reach the fascia beneath the surface muscles. Practitioners
must have a thorough understanding of the human body and have been trained to administer
deep-tissue massage, as injury can occur if the technique is not performed properly. This
technique is useful in treating chronic pain, inflammation and injury.
Trigger-Point Therapy-Trigger points are areas of soft tissue in the body characterized by
local pain, tightness, and tenderness. Often trigger points develop because of referred pain,
or pain from another source that has manifested itself in a trigger point. Trigger points rarely
refer pain to other areas. Trigger-point therapy seeks first to identify trigger points, and then
apply steady, appropriate pressure to the point to release it. This is usually followed by
massage to the surrounding area to help treat the cause of the trigger point. Clients are
encouraged to drink a lot of water following a trigger-point therapy session to flush out any
toxins released when the trigger point is released.
Connective Tissue Massage -Connective tissue massage is another term for myofascial
release in that it involves working with the body's fascia, or soft tissue, to relieve pain,
tightness, and discomfort. The idea behind connective tissue massage is that restriction in
one area of the body negatively affects other areas of the body. Practitioners of this
technique "hook" their fingers into the connective tissue and utilize pulling strokes to lengthen
the area. Benefits include pain reduction, tension relief, improved mobility and stress
reduction.
Myofascial Release (MFR)-A very effective, no pain ways to release stuck places in the
body, without the after soreness of deep tissue, resulting the same if not better results.
Myofascial release deals with the fascia, or connective tissue, of the body. The fascia is
interconnected to every other part of the body, and actually helps to support the body's very
structure, including the musculoskeletal system. When injury, inflammation, or physical or
emotional trauma occurs, the fascia can become tight and cause pain and/or restricted range
of motion. Myofascial release -- as its name suggests -- aims to release the fascia and return
it to a state of normalcy by applying gentle pressure to the restricted areas. MFR can help
with a number of conditions, including chronic pain, headaches, and stress-related illnesses.
Soft-Tissue Massage-Soft-tissue massage is a generic term for any modality that is used to
treat the soft tissues in the body, including muscle, fascia, and scar tissue. Common
modalities used include Swedish, myofascial release, deep tissue, trigger point therapy,
connective tissue massage.
Swedish Massage-Generally regarded as the most common form of massage, Swedish
massage involves a combination of five basic strokes and concentrates on the muscles and
connective tissues of the body for improved circulation, relaxation, pain relief, and overall
health maintenance and well-being. Swedish massage does not involve deep-tissue work.
Prenatal Massage-Prenatal, or pregnancy, massage uses gentle techniques to help
alleviate some of the ailments associated with pregnancy, including lower back, neck and
shoulder pain; fatigue; joint tenderness; and stretch marks. Prenatal massage can help
improve circulation, promote stress reduction and relaxation, and much more. Depending on
the comfort level of the recipient, it is usually done in the lateral recumbent position, with
pillows for support. Prone position, or face down is not recommended.
Sports Massage-Sports massage therapies are both preventative and therapeutic, and
used during warm ups, training and competition to treat and/or aid in the prevention of
injuries; help improve flexibility, range of motion, and performance; and aid in mental clarity.
Massage therapists, are part of virtually every professional sports team and are often
privately employed by athletes both novice and professional. This can be administered prior
to or post activity.
Geriatric Massage-Geriatric massage involves treating the elderly, often in resident-care
facilities, and addressing their needs related to aging, depression and illness. Geriatric
massage is usually shorter in duration, and involves the application of gentle techniques to
facilitate pain relief, relaxation, and an overall feeling of wellness.
On Site Table/Chair Massage-Chair massage, also known as seated massage, is
administered on site at various locations, including health fairs, airports, shopping malls and
in corporate settings. Clients remain fully clothed and treatments generally last from 15-30
minutes. Chair massage is usually limited to the back, neck and arms. If space allows, a table
is preferred and is often more comfortable and requires less time to make adjustments . The
Table also accommodates clients of all shapes and sizes, where as the chair has its limitations.
Allied Modalities:
BENEFICIAL EFFECTS OF USING HEAT THERAPIES:
Applying heat to the body has the effect of dilating the blood vessels, increasing the
metabolic rate of the heated area, and relaxing the muscles on a deep level. The use of
heat is an important therapeutic tool and often crucial to the massage experience.
Heat can deliver nurturing comfort to the client while enabling a far deeper state of
relaxation than massage alone.
Pain relief is a specific goal for most massage therapy sessions and much discomfort
can be alleviated by tapping into the body's own parasympathetic nervous system to
facilitate the release of endorphins, the body's own "feel good" pain reliever.
In addition to causing the brain to create comfort hormones, an important
physiologic effect of applying heat to painful areas of the body is the reduction of pain
by interference with pain transfer mechanisms. In the body, the pain and temperature
sensing pathways are close together. When the heat message occupies these pathways,
the pain message becomes distorted and the pain is diminished.
Reflexology- This technique is based on a system of points on the hands, feet and ears that
correspond, or "reflex," to other areas of the body. Similar in theory to acupressure and is believed
that applying appropriate pressure to these points stimulates the flow of energy, thus helping to
relieve pain or blockages throughout the entire body. A very pleasurable form of bodywork,
Reflexology is also used to ease stress and promote relaxation.
Hydrotherapy-Hydrotherapy involves the use of water in all its forms (internally and externally)
to assist in the healing process. These water therapies can include steamed towels, body wraps, the
application of ice or heat packs, the use of a whirlpool, colonic irrigation and more.
Polarity Therapy-According to the American Polarity Therapy Association, "Polarity therapy is
a comprehensive health system involving energy-based bodywork, diet, exercise and self-awareness.
It works with the Human Energy Field, electromagnetic patterns expressed in mental, emotional
and physical experience. In Polarity Therapy, health is viewed as a reflection of the condition of
the energy field, and therapeutic methods are designed to balance the field for health benefit."* The
technique's pioneer, Dr. Randolph Stone, a strong proponent of the healing powers of energy,
utilized polarity therapy in his practice until retiring at the age of 84 in 1974.
| ~Descriptions of Massage~ Techniques & Modalities |
| Try Ashiatsu Today! |
ASHIATSU:
(Ashi means "foot" and atsu means "pressure") is an ancient form of bodywork
based on Keralite foot massage called "Chavutti Thirummal", from Kerala India
and dates back to the 12th century.
It was originally part of a marital art training, and an Ayurvedic ritual.
In Ashiatsu Bar Therapy, the therapist uses their Bare Feet in heavy compression
work combined with Swedish, Sports, and Myofascial techniques while
using an overhead bar system for balance.
HOW ASHIATSU BENEFITS YOU:
+ Muscles are elongated and broadened at the same time.
+ Increased circulation due to more surface compression.
+ Accelerate muscle recovery and alleviate the aches and pains of physical
exercise.
+ More pressure can be evenly administered to the client's body.
+ Pressure is effectively maintained for longer periods of time.
+ Provides a very deep, relaxing massage without the usual pain
associated with deep tissue massage.
+ There is no bruising.
+ More effective work can be done in a shorter period of time.
+ Client receives more postural alignment gains, thus creating balance.
+ Treatment has a longer lasting effect on the client.
+ Allows deep tissue work for bodies with lots of hair.
+ Provides deeper and stronger massage for physically active people
+ Breakdown cellulite and scar tissue.
+ Enhance eliminations of toxins in the body.
+ Combats stress related symptoms such as headaches, lethargy and insomnia
+ Even pressure that is applied with the foot, which is also bigger than the
hand and, gives the therapist control without injury to the therapist’s hands or
the client’s body.
+ IT FEELS GREAT!
+ Very effective for clients who require more pressure, more circulation, or have
a larger, thicker build.
NOT RECOMMENDED for elderly, pregnant, or clients with weak bones.
(Ashi means "foot" and atsu means "pressure") is an ancient form of bodywork
based on Keralite foot massage called "Chavutti Thirummal", from Kerala India
and dates back to the 12th century.
It was originally part of a marital art training, and an Ayurvedic ritual.
In Ashiatsu Bar Therapy, the therapist uses their Bare Feet in heavy compression
work combined with Swedish, Sports, and Myofascial techniques while
using an overhead bar system for balance.
HOW ASHIATSU BENEFITS YOU:
+ Muscles are elongated and broadened at the same time.
+ Increased circulation due to more surface compression.
+ Accelerate muscle recovery and alleviate the aches and pains of physical
exercise.
+ More pressure can be evenly administered to the client's body.
+ Pressure is effectively maintained for longer periods of time.
+ Provides a very deep, relaxing massage without the usual pain
associated with deep tissue massage.
+ There is no bruising.
+ More effective work can be done in a shorter period of time.
+ Client receives more postural alignment gains, thus creating balance.
+ Treatment has a longer lasting effect on the client.
+ Allows deep tissue work for bodies with lots of hair.
+ Provides deeper and stronger massage for physically active people
+ Breakdown cellulite and scar tissue.
+ Enhance eliminations of toxins in the body.
+ Combats stress related symptoms such as headaches, lethargy and insomnia
+ Even pressure that is applied with the foot, which is also bigger than the
hand and, gives the therapist control without injury to the therapist’s hands or
the client’s body.
+ IT FEELS GREAT!
+ Very effective for clients who require more pressure, more circulation, or have
a larger, thicker build.
NOT RECOMMENDED for elderly, pregnant, or clients with weak bones.
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