Massage Modalities

Swedish massage: Swedish massage is the most popular type of massage therapy and is meant to help relax the body and mind. It involves a total body massage where a person lies on the massage table while the massage therapist slowly works through different muscle groups. Swedish massage also helps circulate blood flow, relieve mental stress, and reduce muscle pain and tension.

The techniques used within Swedish massage are the four main techniques that make up the core of nearly all different massage therapies, and are taught to every therapist when they begin. There are four main movements that are used to soothe and improve muscle condition, improve circulation and help you feel relaxed.

These four movements are called effleurage, petrissage, kneading and tapotement.

• Effleurage (also known as stroking) – this movement is done with the flat of the hand with the fingers close together and with the tips of the fingers turning slightly upwards or with the palm to cover a large surface area and should be slow and rhythmic. This movement is usually made towards the heart and increases the blood and lymph flow whilst also relaxing the patient.
• Petrissage – Petrissage (from French Petrir meaning to knead) is traditionally linked with the kneading movement. Typically when the movement is applied with the balls of the thumb or fingers the soft tissue is compressed with bone underneath it, this compression movement helps to eliminate waste products among many other benefits.
• Kneading – This is a deep movement that can be applied to many parts of the body, the action is very similar to that of kneading bread. Using the whole hand to grasp, lift and release a muscle or muscle group with alternate hands. The kneading action can improve elasticity and flexibility by creating movement between muscle bands.
• Tapotement – These are fine vibratory movements that can be applied with the fingers or hands, working very quickly and rhythmically. There is a variety of applications including Hacking and Cupping, beating and pounding.
  • Hacking – This movement is applied with the edge of the hand (in a slightly relaxed position) with the fingers slightly spread apart, to create a vibration effect when the hand strikes the surface.
  • Cupping – This movement is applied with the hands in a cupping position, when the hand is brought down on the body it creates a vacuum, so when the hand is taken away it sucks the blood towards the skin which is beneficial to the skin, peripheral nerve endings and subcutaneous tissue.
  • Beating – This movement is applied by lightly striking with the palmer surface of a loosely held fist.

Benefits:

• Pain management. If you have a condition like sciatica or osteoarthritis and are suffering from chronic pain as a result, Swedish massage can be an effective method for managing that pain in a natural way. Notify your massage therapist about your pain points, he or she can target those areas and use a stroking motion to improve local circulation and reduce muscle tension.
• Increased blood flow. Your Swedish Massage Therapist should use effleurage – a long, stroking motion in the direction of blood flow towards the heart – in order to open up your blood vessels and increase your blood flow. Increased blood flow means that your muscles are getting more nutrients and oxygen and that your body is removing toxins more efficiently.
• Rehabilitation for muscle injuries. Your Therapist should also rely on kneading and friction to address any existing injuries, such as adhesions (which occur when muscle tissues fuse together). Many people say that this technique, which relaxes layers of muscle, makes it feel as if the Massage Therapist is “working out the kinks.”
• Increased flexibility. When your muscles are more relaxed, you’re able to experience a wider range of motion. A combination of Swedish massage and regular stretching is a great way for anyone to stave off workout-related injuries and get the most out of their periods of exercise.
• Reduced stress. Swedish massages are meant to maximize relaxation—you’ll be on a massage table, in a peaceful environment, with a professional spending an extended time (between 60 – 120 minutes) giving you a massage. The combination of the hands-on attention and the environment should relax you, lowering the level of the stress hormone cortisol in your body. Lowering your stress level offers a surprising number of additional benefits, including reducing or eliminating tension headaches, giving you more energy, and allowing you to get a better night’s sleep.
• Improved immune system. One other great benefit of reducing your stress with a Swedish massage is that the lower cortisol levels allow your immune system to grow stronger, meaning that you’re less likely to get sick and can spend more time doing the things you enjoy.

  A deep tissue massage consists of the manipulation of the deeper layers of muscle and fascia (the connective tissue surrounding muscles). The direct and deep pressure is often used to relieve chronic aches and pains.  Essentially, a "deep tissue" massage (which isn't to be confused with a regular massage with deep pressure) is used to break up scar tissue and physically break down muscle "knots" or adhesions (bands of painful, rigid tissue) that can disrupt circulation and cause pain, limited range of motion, and inflammation.  Deep work is important, but we understand that some people may be afraid to have that "painful" work done. The truth of the matter is - discomfort or "good hurt" is normal, but the massage shouldn't be painful. A professional therapist works with each client based on their comfort level. Additionally, CMT's are great at speaking to the body individually; working within a client's breaths. Deep Tissue work might be good for you depending on how beat up your body is, your pain thresh hold, and your health history, that will determine how many treatments you need in order to see effective results.
Every person is different when it comes to pain tolerance and deep tissue work may not be for everyone. 

• Deep tissue massage is more suited for those with a medium to high pain tolerance.
• Deep tissue massage targets knots and adhesions deep in the sub-layer of your muscles.
• Some benefits of deep tissue massage include relief from lower back pain and inflammation.

Widely used to treat chronic aches and pains, deep tissue massage is a popular form of massage therapy. This technique targets areas of tension or tightness by applying concentrated pressure to the sub-layer of muscles and fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds your muscles.

Many people consider a regular massage to be a relaxing body rub with calming music and inviting fragrance. Deep tissue session may include those elements, but it's not necessarily relaxing. 

   The goal of a deep tissue massage is to support joint restrictions, knots, and adhesions in muscle and fascia,A deep tissue massage is a good option for someone with a decent tolerance for pain. 

Deep tissue massage benefits

Deep tissue massage helps the body by releasing restricted or injured tissues, says Montia. By applying appropriate pressure, deep tissue massage expedites recovery to provide pain relief, 

According to research, the benefits of deep tissue massage include: 

• Increased range of motion
• Lower blood pressure and heart rate
• Reduced pain perception
• Relief of inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis
• Relief of chronic and low back pain
• Reduced pain associated with Ankylosing Spondylitis  

What happens when you get a deep tissue massage

There is no standard choreography to a deep tissue massage and all therapists have different styles that should be tailored to the client's individual needs, 

Therapeutic massage is a type of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) practice that is often used to treat muscle pain, injury, and stiffness. Massage therapy has also been used for the treatment of mental and emotional problems, including stress, anxiety, and depression.

Also considered a relaxation technique, massage therapy may be able to help reduce tension and elicit feelings of calm and deep relaxation. Additionally, massage may be able to curb feelings of fear and anxiety and assist in managing other panic disorder symptoms.

Therapeutic massage is a general term that describes any type of massage modality that helps relieve pain, reduce stress, and work on a specific problem.. All techniques needed to pin point and release the tension/pain areas. 

I use their hands, forearms, and even elbows and some times tools to work through various groups of muscles. Also, can include aromatherapy oils and tranquil music to help create a peaceful and deeply relaxing experience.

Depending on your needs, I will massage either the full body (except private areas) or only specific areas that need attention, such as especially tight muscles. Remember to breathe normally. 

Therapeutic massage is often used to help relieve muscle tension and pain. It may be used on its own, but it is also often used in conjunction with other traditional pain treatments. Therapeutic massage may also be helpful for helping people deal with symptoms of conditions including:

• Anxiety
• Depression5
• Digestive disorders
• Fibromyalgia6
• Headaches
• Insomnia
• Panic disorder
• Stress

Physical Benefits

• Less muscle pain and tension
• Improved circulation and flexibility
• Lower heart rate

Mental Benefits

• Fewer anxious thoughts
• Tamed fight-or-flight response
• Lower tension and more feelings of calm

Lymphatic Drainange Non Post Op:

Unlike the heart, the lymphatic system does not have a pump to push it around the body, so the lymph [a clear fluid that moves through your body's arteries and tissues to clean them, before draining them through the lymphatic system] relies primarily on our body's muscle action and movement to maintain its fluid movement,

Lymphatic drainage is a manual massage technique that works on the lymphatic system, stimulating it to work quickly by moving the lymph to the lymph nodes (throughout your body, but largely located in your neck, armpits, and groin). Its main function is to accelerate the process of removing the accumulated liquid between the cells and their catabolic (breakdown of residues), directing them to the capillary vessels and, through specific movements,  so that they are eliminated.

Benefits are extensive, mainly in the transport and removal of stagnant fluids, but it also:

• Stimulates blood circulation and tissue regeneration
• Directs and increases lymphatic flow, promoting faster removal of excess interstitial fluid
• Reduces swelling and water retention
• Improves the immune system due to the important elimination of toxins
• Minimizes the appearance of cellulite by reducing the amount of fluid that presses up against the cross-hatched fibers beneath your skin
• Promotes body and mental relaxation
• Provides an overall lightness in the body
• Energizes the body: While Carson says that "there isn’t enough scientific research to support lymphatic drainage outside of medical treatment for lymphedema, many individuals report improvements in symptoms including energy, focus, reduced puffiness, and mood.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage is a gentle, connective tissue massage technique that accelerates the movement of the lymphatic fluid that bathes the tissues, through the lymphatic system and into the bloodstream. The lymphatic system is responsible for keeping the connective tissue surrounding cells free from excess water, proteins, bacteria, viruses, inorganic materials, destroyed cells resulting from surgery or trauma, red blood cells, and other dead cells.

The therapist uses precise, rhythmic strokes. The pumping action of the massage causes small capillaries to open and close, enhancing reabsorption of lymph from the tissues back into the lymphatic vessels. This technique helps remove toxins, reduces edema or tissue fluid retention, and decongests all lymphatic pathways. The repetitive and soothing movements also stimulate pain-inhibitory reflexes. Lymphatic drainage massage enhances immune function, increases tissue metabolism, improves nutrition to the tissues, promotes eliminative functions, establishes fluid balance, reduces pain, and induces deep relaxation

Thai massage, which originated in India, has been around for over 2,500 years. Originally regarded as a healing art, traditional Thai massage includes influences from both Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine.

Unlike typical Western-type massages, it doesn’t involve lying on a massage bed while a massage therapist applies oil to your body and kneads your muscles and pressure points.

Instead, you lie fully clothed on a mat on the ground while a practitioner uses stretching, pulling, and rocking techniques to relieve tension, promote relaxation, and improve flexibility and circulation.

Sometimes referred to as assisted yoga, Thai massage is focused on improving the flow of energy throughout your body.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the science-backed benefits of traditional Thai massage and what to expect if you opt for this type of massage.

Benefits:

• Relieves headaches (tension & migraines
• Reduces back pain
• Relieves joint stiffness & pain
• Increases flexibility & range of motion
• Eases anxiety
• Revives energy

Techniques

In a traditional Thai massage, practitioners use their hands, thumbs, elbows, forearms, and sometimes even their feet to reduce tension in your muscles.

Thai massage is based on the idea that energy moves through your body along predictable lines or pathways known as sens.

To increase the flow of energy along the sens, the practitioner will move your body into yoga-like positions in addition to pulling and rocking your body in various ways.

The combination of stretching, movement, and pressure is what distinguishes Thai massage from other types of massage.

Thai massage may be a good option for you if you want a more active type of massage, where you move and participate instead of lying down throughout your massage.

What to Expect

With Thai massage, you can wear your own loose-fitting clothes, or the practitioner may have you change into scrub-like garments — a loose cotton top and drawstring pants. You keep your clothes on throughout the massage.

Typically, you’ll lie on a mat or massage mattress on the floor, not on a massage table. Once on the mat, your practitioner will slowly move your body through multiple stretches, using the weight and pressure of their body to assist you.

Unlike a Swedish massage, oil isn’t used and your muscles typically aren’t kneaded. Instead, the practitioner will use their hands, thumbs, elbows, and knees to stretch, pull, and rock different parts of your body. They may even sit on you to stretch you into certain positions.

Some types of stretches may involve going through yoga-like movements with the practitioner holding or pulling you to maintain a pose.

If your muscles are sore or tense, you may feel some discomfort. If you do, let your practitioner know so the pressure and stretching can be reduced.

If you have an injury, or some part of your body is particularly sensitive to pain, be sure to let the practitioner know before they start the massage session.

Risks and Safety

Because Thai massage has profound effects on your circulatory system, make sure you check with your doctor before you schedule a massage, especially if you have:

• heart disease or coronary artery disease
• high blood pressure
• conditions that affect your spine, including osteoporosis and neurological diseases
• diabetes
• recent surgery
• open wounds
• cancer

Thai massage isn’t recommended for pregnant women.

In addition, medical experts recommend that you avoid massage if you have:

• bleeding disorders
• deep vein thrombosis
• burns
• thrombocytopenia

The bottom line

Thai massage is an ancient practice with many benefits that are supported by modern science. It may reduce the severity of your headaches, decrease lower back and joint pain, increase your flexibility, calm your anxieties, and energize your mind and body.

Thai massage isn’t a passive treatment. Your practitioner will move you through a gradual series of yoga-like positions in addition to working on the tension in your muscles.

Thai massage may not be safe for everyone. If you have an underlying health condition, be sure to find out from your doctor if this traditional form of massage is safe for you.

Stretching Therapy Massage is a combination of light therapeutic massage with stretching incorporated throughout the massage session. Stretching is a great way to keep the body limber, but not all of us are able to incorporate it into our daily lives. If a yoga class just doesn’t fit into your schedule, why not add some stretching to your massage treatment?  

When combined with regular massage techniques, assisted stretching not only keeps your muscles supple, it helps your massage therapist work more effectively.  Stretch massage alleviates strain on your joints and has a slew of other benefits, including: 

• Enhanced flexibility
• Improved posture
• Increased range of motion
• Better circulation

Sports massage is manual manipulation of the muscles geared specifically toward helping people who have physically demanding lifestyles and/or hobbies. This kind of therapeutic massage considers the impact of certain activities on specific joints, muscle groups, tendons, ligaments, and soft tissue groups. The conscious focus of sports massage therapy maximizes the benefit of certain massage techniques and supports further physical exertion and activity. An initial assessment is used to create a specially informed massage therapy plan that will meet each individual athlete’s specific needs.

Your sports massage may include, movement, resistance exercise, stretching, mobilizations, and a host of 'other' stuff that has its own results apart from a nice rub. 

Prefer you to wear loose-fitting clothing, which also extends to underwear, where possible. Unless women choose to wear a sports bra, as mentioned above, all other undergarments should be loose-fitting, where possible. 

What are the Benefits of Sport Massage Therapy?

• Relaxation
• Recovery
• Removal of Toxins
• Better Sleep
• Performance Enhancement

Who could Benefit from a Sports Massage?

• Fitness Newcomers
• Amateur Athletes 
• Dedicated Athletes

What You Need To Know Before Getting A Sports Massage

1. Understand the Different Types of Massage. ...
2. Consider Carefully Before Scheduling a Massage Close to a Race. ...
3. Post-Race Massages Are Geared Towards Recovery. ...
4. Vet Your Therapist in Advance. ...
5. Arrive Well Hydrated. ...
6. Keep That Pre-Appointment Meal Light. ...
7. Don't Expect a Spa Session.

A geriatric massage technique employs light, gentle massage and passive stretching to ease muscle tension without excessive friction on the skin. Geriatric massage benefits those who are less physically active by helping to promote circulation and can help to improve posture and provide an overall sense of well-being.

There are many reasons geriatric massage may be beneficial for you or a loved one.

Many older adults lack positive physical contact with others on a regular basis. A massage therapist can fulfill this need for you or a loved one with the touch a massage provides.

Other overall benefits to geriatric massage can include:

• stress reduction
• improved mental outlook
• pain management
• increased blood circulation
• better sleep

Considerations:

A massage therapist will consider several factors for people of advanced age to ensure their experience is safe and beneficial.

Overall health status

A massage therapist will first consider your overall health when providing a geriatric massage. This may involve observing your movements along with asking questions about your health status and activity level.

Keep in mind that the aging body encounters changes to systems in the body. Your body may be more sensitive to pressure, your joints may work differently, and your muscles and bones may be more vulnerable.

Health conditions

It’s important to let your massage therapist know about any health conditions you may have prior to your massage. These can include chronic conditions like arthritis, cancer, circulatory conditions, diabetes, gastrointestinal conditions, or heart conditions.

This is especially important if you’re advocating for a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. A massage therapist should be aware of all health conditions before performing the massage.

Medications

If you take one or several medications to treat health conditions, let your massage therapist know. They can modify the massage based on the effects of the medications.

Skin condition

As you age, the thickness and durability of your skin changes. The massage therapist will determine how much pressure they can apply safely to your skin. Too much pressure could result in breaking or irritating your skin.

Pain threshold

You may experience pain differently as an older adult due to reduced blood flow, a health condition, or medication.

Tell your massage therapist if you have an increased sensitivity to pain or if you’re unable to feel pain until it’s extreme. This can avoid injury or discomfort.

Temperature regulation:

You may become more sensitive to heat or cold as you age. It may also be difficult for you to regulate your temperature. Make sure to mention any sensitivity to temperature to your massage therapist so they can accommodate you.

To Conduct a safe Geriatic Massage,Massage therapist my consider

• conduct a shorter massage
• apply a lighter touch
• position you in a way that is sensitive to your body’s needs
• provide blankets, bolsters, or cushioning pads to make the massage more comfortable
• visit you where you live versus having you travel to a different location
• schedule the massage during hours when you feel up to it

Anyone who's ever had a professional massage knows that both body and mind feel better afterwards — and the same goes for prenatal massage, which can feel extra wonderful when extra weight and changes in posture stir up new aches and pains.

Here’s everything moms-to-be need to know about getting a massage during pregnancy.

What is a prenatal massage?

Prenatal massages are adapted for the anatomical changes you go through during pregnancy. In a traditional massage, you might spend half the time lying face-down on your stomach (which is not possible with a baby belly) and half the time facing up (a position that puts pressure on a major blood vessel that can disrupt blood flow to your baby and leave you feeling nauseous).

But as your shape and posture changes, a trained massage therapist will make accommodations with special cushioning systems or holes that allow you to lie face down safely, while providing room for your growing belly and breasts. Or you might lie on your side with the support of pillows and cushions. 

Can Pregnant women get massages?

Prenatal massages are generally considered safe after the first trimester, as long as you get the green light from your practitioner and you let your massage therapist know you’re pregnant. But you’ll want to avoid massage during the first three months of pregnancy as it may trigger dizziness and add to morning sickness.

Despite myths you might have heard, there is no magic eject button that will accidentally disrupt your pregnancy, and there isn't much solid scientific proof that specific types of massage can have an effect one way or the other. Some massage therapists avoid certain pressure points, including the one between the anklebone and heel, because of concern that it may trigger contractions, but the evidence on whether massage actually can kickstart labor is inconclusive (to nonexistent). It is a good idea to avoid having your tummy massaged, since pressure on that area when you're pregnant can make you uncomfortable.

If you are in the second half of your pregnancy (after the fourth month), don't lie on your back during your massage; the weight of your baby and uterus can compress blood vessels and reduce circulation to your placenta, creating more problems than any massage can cure.

And don’t expect deep tissue work on your legs during a prenatal massage. While gentle pressure is safe (and can feel heavenly!), pregnant women are particularly susceptible to blood clots, which deep massage work can dislodge. That, in turn, can be risky. On other body parts, the pressure can be firm and as deep or as gentle as you’d like. Always communicate with your therapist about what feels good — and if something starts to hurt.

Another thing to keep in mind: While any massage therapist can, theoretically, work on pregnant women, it’s best to go to a specialist who has a minimum of 16 hours of advanced training in maternal massage. (There’s no specific certification, so you should ask when you make your appointment.) This way, you can rest assured you’re in the hands of someone who knows exactly how to relieve any pain and pressure related to your changing anatomy.

Finally, always check with your practitioner before receiving a prenatal massage — particularly if you have diabetes, morning sickness, preeclampsia, high blood pressure, fever, a contagious virus, abdominal pain or bleeding — they’re complications that could make massage during pregnancy risky.

What are the benefits of prenatal massage?

Research shows that massage can reduce stress hormones in your body and relax and loosen your muscles. It can also increase blood flow, which is so important when you're pregnant, and keep your lymphatic system working at peak efficiency, flushing out toxins from your body. And it reconnects your mind with your body, a connection that's comforting if you sometimes wonder if there’s a baby in there or if an alien has taken up residence inside of you.

During pregnancy, regular prenatal massages may not only help you relax, but may also relieve insomnia, joint pain, neck and back pain, leg cramping and sciatica. Additionally, it can reduce swelling in your hands and feet (as long as that swelling isn't a result of preeclampsia), relieve carpal tunnel pain, and alleviate headaches and sinus congestion — all common pregnancy problems. Massage may also lift depression without the use of medication, according to some scientific studies.

What is the youngest age to get a massage? 

Sincerely, there is no age limit for massage. Massage is suitable for all ages, be it adults, teenagers, and kids. Although, a person may reason that of what benefit is massage to a child less than five years old. 

Is massage therapy good for children? 

How could massage therapy help my child? It is proven to increase dopamine (the feel good hormone) and decrease cortisol (the stress hormone). This helps regulate anxiety and stress levels that can become imbalanced due to social, family and academic pressures.

Is massage good for kids with ADHD?Incorporating professional massage into your child's routine may help him to develop an age-appropriate ability to focus, a calmer disposition, and even increased confidence. Studies report that two 20-minute massages a week are enough to show significant improvement in ADHD children. 

Benefits: Decrease musculoskeletal pain and increase healing. Increase body awareness and neurological development. Decrease levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) and blood glucose levels. The reduction in stress in children boosts the immune system and its ability to resist diseases.

Why pediatric massage? Babies and children simply love to be touched. In fact, they thrive on it and it is a crucial part of their development. Children need physical contact for healthy growth and development. Nurturing touch promotes physiological, neurological and psychological development and function. Healthy children receive the benefits of touch from many sources, but just as with adults, the symptoms of physical and emotional stress can often be alleviated by massage therapy from a trained professional. 

Some of these can include :

‣ strenuous athletics or exercise 

‣ physical pain from injury or medical treatment 

‣ family difficulties, including death, divorce, or moving 

‣ difficulties in school, either academic or social 

‣ natural disasters or other traumatizing events Sadly, not all children receive the basic, necessary touch in their everyday lives. This can sometimes happen when children ‣ live in an institutional environment (hospital, nursing home, orphanage) 

‣ have a medical condition that makes people afraid to touch them (legitimate or imagined)

‣ have a condition that makes untrained touch dangerous ‣ have been neglected or abused at home 

‣ have a condition that makes them averse to touch 

Pediatric Massage: 

Why should a parent and Therapist ask permission of the baby to massage?Asking a baby for permission to massage is critical to having a successful exchange of communication. Basically, baby massage is communication. Since baby massage is different from many other ways and reasons we touch our babies, it's important babies learn they have a say in the matter.

Chair massage is a form of massage therapy that is performed while the client is fully clothed and seated upright. It's different from a table massage in few important ways.  

The massage chair is designed for the client to rest forward slightly, with their arms and legs supported. A face cradle supports the client's head. The massage therapist works muscles and knots through the client's clothes, and so lotion or oil is not used. Though occasionally, the therapist may use some lotion on the neck or forearms/hands.

Chair massage is a much more portable way of bringing massage to clients. For this reason, chair massage is popular at events, trade shows, conventions, conferences, and other big events. It's also an easy way for employers to provide massage at work.

Since chair massage doesn't require clients to disrobe, it's a much quicker turn-around time between each massage session, allowing for several sessions in a short period of time.  

Like table massage, chair massage offers numerous benefits. After a 15-minute chair massage session, clients can expect to see these kinds of results:

• Reduced muscle tension & knots
• Deeper breathing
• Headache relief
• Stress reduction
• Increased focus and attention

Because of results like these, and its portability, chair massage is a popular option for employers who want to improve productivity or morale.