Therapeutic Massage

What is it and how does it work?
This form of massage is based on the Swedish style but uses more advanced techniques which are designed to target particular problem areas/imbalances/postural issues. It utilises deep tissue techniques, neuromuscular techniques, trigger point work, deep friction, acupressure, PNF, MET, soft tissue release, and other remedial and sports massage techniques.
Relaxation techniques, nutritional advice, exercise and stretching are also used where needed, so it has a more "holistic" approach to the healing process.
This form of massage would be indicated where there are specific issues which need to be addressed ~ injuries, pain, mobility problems etc, rather than an all-body massage which, whilst making you feel very relaxed, does not always necessarily have a lasting impact on sore, tight muscles and imbalances.
This form of treatment can often require a more active and involved role by the client, which most clients love and appreciate. Side lying, prone and supine positions are used alongside active and passive stretching. Clients may be asked to gauge the sensitivity of tender spots or referred pain patterns so it can be established when there are positive changes.
Although a client might have painful areas which need to be worked on, this treatment should not induce pain. Work should be guided by the individual client, since pain thresholds will vary greatly. Feedback about how the client is feeling is therefore essential.

What are the KEY EFFECTS of therapeutic massage?
Increased circulation;
Increased lymphatic flow;
Increased range of movement/mobility of the joints;
Increased flexibility and tone in the muscles and soft tissue;
Relief from chronic and acute pain;
Reduced swelling in the joints (arthritis) and the tissue (oedema);
Improved rate of recovery from injury, sport or otherwise;
Assists in the breakdown of adhesions, knots and scar tissue;
Deactivation of trigger points (tender spots which refer pain to other areas and cause anything from headaches to "piriformis syndrome";
Relaxation, stress reduction.

How can this help me, what are the benefits?
All forms of massage, to varying degrees will increase the flow of blood and therefore the amount of nutrients and oxygen available to the soft tissue, organs and cells. It will also increase the removal of waste products from cell metabolism and physical work/sport. This will help to alleviate soreness/aches/pains in the muscles. This is particularly useful after physical exertion and is also essential for general health.
The lymphatic system will be enhanced. It relies on muscular movement and breathing to assist its flow through the body. As well as stimulating the immune system response, toxins will be removed more readily from the body.
Tight, tense muscles will be shorter in length than normal and therefore exert greater pressure on joints, cause wear and tear and possibly pain. Relaxing the soft tissue reduces these strains and allows for better movement, free from pain.
It can help to loosen tight, contracted, short muscles and stimulate weak, flaccid muscles, so improving the overall "tone" of the soft tissue.
After an initial soft tissue injury (use rest, ice, compression and elevation for 24-48 hours) massage can be incredibly useful in rehabilitation/recovery. This is because massage will increase the flow of blood, increase nutrients available and help remove waste products. More oxygen will also be available. All of these components are necessary in the healing process. Whilst it is true that the muscles have a good blood supply and, hence, will heal with relative ease, the tendons and ligaments have virtually no supply at all, so increasing that flow is essential for a speedier recovery.
Massage will also help break down scar tissue before it is able to fix to the soft tissue next to it. Scar tissue can be very binding and cause an excessive loss of suppleness and flexibility of the soft tissue.
As we get older, the soft tissue can become more tendinous, that is, it becomes "ropey", it can also become "adhered" or stuck to surrounding fascia and other muscles. This will affect the flexibility of the muscle and the mobility of the joint. Massage is effective in breaking these down, as well as desensitizing trigger points and knots.
Massage is a great relaxation tool. Often clients will come for a monthly massage, either as a bit of personal time or just because it feels so good. We should never underestimate the power of touch and the nurturing that people experience from it. Massage can be a useful addition in your healthcare and well-being "tool bag". You don't need to have something "wrong" with you to benefit from massage.

What will happen during the treatment?
A full consultation will be taken, reviewing your medical history, and any medication that you are currently taking. If you are taking medication prescribed by your GP, you might find it useful to make a list. You might also wish to speak with your GP/consultant before treatment as, for some conditions, special care needs to be taken.
Although you will need to undress to your underwear, soft luxurious towels will be used to cover you, and only the area being worked on is exposed.
Following your massage you may be given homecare advice so that you can get the most from your treatment. This may include stretching exercises to help assist any imbalances that have been noted.

How much does it cost?

30mins @ £22, 60 mins @ £35, 90mins@ £48

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