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Types of Massage and Definitions

   

Swedish Massage refers to a variety of techniques specifically designed to relax muscles. The main purpose of Swedish massage is to increase the oxygen flow in the blood and release toxins from the muscles. Swedish massage flushes the tissues of lactic acid, uric acid, and other metabolic wastes. It increases circulation without increasing heart load. It stretches the ligaments and tendons keeping them supple and pliable. Swedish massage also stimulates the skin and nervous system and soothes the nerves themselves at the same time. It reduces stress, both emotional and physical and is suggested in a regular program for stress management. It also has many specific medical uses. Swedish massage feels good, is relaxing and invigorating. It affects the nerves, muscles, glands and circulation, while promoting health and well being.

Deep Tissue Massage is a combination of massage that gets to the deeper tissue structures of the muscle and fascia. It can release tension in the tissues, or have a psychological release. It will loosen bonds between the layers of connective tissues.

Medical Massage is sometimes defined as medically necessary massage, which is usually prescribed by a physician. Medical massage is generally practiced in relation to a specific goal focused on improving health of patients. Medical massage is helpful to individuals who suffer from an assortment of health conditions, including repetitive motion injuries, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, muscle spasms, neuromuscular conditions, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, chronic headaches, whiplash, rotator cuff injuries, and soft-tissue injuries as well. According to an article written by Certified Senior Instructor, Boris Prilutsky - "... Medical Massage has been clinically and scientifically shown to bring about a vasodilartory effect that significantly reduces cardiac work."
Additionally, medical massage increases blood supply to skeletal muscles and other body components. Furthermore, medical massage is also evidenced to stimulate the nervous system as well. Overall, medical massage is a noninvasive therapy that produces beneficial health results to those experiencing numerous health-related illnesses and injuries.

As powerful as Medical Massage Therapy can be, in certain cases it may be contraindicated. Please consult with your physician or health care provider to determine the appropriate treatment protocol.

Craniosacral therapy is a form of alternative therapy used to assess and enhance the functioning of the craniosacral system, which consists of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid of the central nervous system. Practitioners manipulate the bones of the skull in order to remove restrictions in the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, relieving stress, decreasing pain, and enhancing the body's overall health. A gentle, hands-on method of evaluating and enhancing the function of the craniosacral system comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Therapist focuses on releasing restrictions of the cranial sutures and the underlying membranes through gentle hands-on contact with the bones of the skull. Carniosacral Therapy is gaining acceptance by health professionals worldwide as a successful treatment modality to improve overall body functioning. And treat a range of conditions, from headaches and ear infections, to stroke, Spinal Cord Injury, and Cerebral Palsy.

Hot Stone Massage is a deeply soothing and relaxing massage that combines Swedish or Deep Tissue Massage with 15-30 smooth basalt stones heated to 125 degrees. Traditional strokes of massage are used while holding the heated stone. Stones may be placed in specific points along your spine, in the palm of your hand, or even between your toes to improve the flow of energy in your body. The heat of the stone will allow muscles to release more quickly and you will experience an enhanced release of toxins and a deeper sense of relaxation.

Reflexology is a technique of manipulating the feet in order to improve circulation, ease pain, and increase relaxation in the body. Reflexology is based on the theory that all body parts, organs, and glands are associated with specific areas called reflex zones, in the feet, hands, ears, and surface of the skin. By manipulating the reflex zones, changes can be effected in the corresponding body part. Reflexology is generally focused on the feet because of the vast amount of nerve endings.

Reiki is a Japanese word that means “universal life energy.” It is a practice that utilizes the laying of hands. Practitioners place hands over key areas of receiver’s body, where the principal organs and glands are located. Hands-on-touch can be combined with visualization in a bodywork session for a particularly powerful effect.

Chair Massage one name for a short (15-20 minute) massage of a client sitting in a special, portable massage chair. The client remains fully clothed and no oils are used while their shoulders, neck, upper back, head and arms are massaged. On-site is popular at some offices as an employee benefit and for some conferences, workshops and social events.

 

 

 

 
 
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